Unveiling the Majesty: Mt. Pumori Expedition (7161m/27,494ft)
Overview: Mount Pumori stands as a formidable test of endurance and climbing prowess, promising unparalleled rewards for those who conquer its summit. Nestled on the Nepal-Tibet border in the Mahalangur Himal of the mighty Himalayas, Mt. Pumori commands breathtaking views from Nangpa La Pass to the Arun River. This expedition unfolds against the backdrop of four of Earth’s loftiest peaks: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Aptly named “the Mountain Daughter” in Sherpa, Pumori beckons with its challenging ascent through glaciers and snow-covered ridges, demanding a genuine climbing spirit to navigate 40 to 60-degree slopes.
The Mountain’s Essence: Pumori, translating to “young girl” or “daughter” (Pumo) and “mountain” (Ri) in Sherpa, reveals itself as a moderate technical pyramid snow and rock mountain. The climb features three camps strategically set above the base camp, tracing the classic South-East Ridge route. This expedition, requiring previous climbing experience, showcases the beauty of the Northwest of Nepal in the Khumbu Region.
The Climb: Embarking on the Pumori expedition entails conquering 40-60 degree slopes, roped-off and guided by seasoned experts. The climb unfolds in a series of camps, each meticulously established at varying altitudes. From the base camp, the journey takes climbers through glaciers, ice walls, and crevasses, leading to the summit’s breathtaking panorama.
Historical Triumph: In 1962, Gerhard Lenser of a German-Swiss expedition achieved the first successful summit of Mt. Pumori, marking a historic milestone in mountaineering.
Expedition Routes via Kalapatthar: Choosing the safer route via Kalapatthar, Altitude Adventure (A2) prioritizes acclimatization in the Grade 3 level climb. Three camps are strategically set above the Pumori Base Camp, with altitudes ranging from 5,300m to 6,480m. Each camp presents its own set of challenges, from navigating glaciers and steep faces to conquering ice walls and crevasses. The final ascent culminates in a triumphant summit of Mt. Pumori.
Altitude Adventure (A2) Expertise: With over a decade of experience in high-altitude expeditions, Altitude Adventure (A2) boasts seasoned guides and mountaineers with 15+ years of expertise. For those seeking a shorter Everest region expedition, the Ama Dablam Expedition (30 days) and the iconic Mt. Everest Expedition via the South Side (67 days) are also offered.
Embark on the Pumori expedition with Altitude Adventure (A2) – where adventure exceeds expectations!
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport (1,345m)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), a warm welcome awaits you. After completing custom formalities, including visa procedures, you’ll be gracefully transferred to your designated hotel. Take some time to refresh, followed by an orientation about your upcoming trek during a welcome dinner. Rest for the night in the comfort of your hotel.
Day 2: Pre-Expedition Meeting and Full-Day Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
Embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Beginning after breakfast, your journey includes visits to the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the massive stupa of Boudhanath, the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), and Kathmandu Durbar Square, showcasing Newari architecture. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Official Formalities in Kathmandu
Head to the Ministry of Tourism for a formal briefing, and your expedition leader will inspect everyone’s equipment. Spend the night in a Kathmandu hotel.
Day 4: Final Preparation Day in Kathmandu
Your last day in Kathmandu before venturing into the Himalayas. Utilize this time to gather any last-minute essentials. Overnight in a Kathmandu hotel.
Day 5: Fly to Lukla (2,804m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m): 3-4 hrs Trek
Embark on an early morning flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla, offering breathtaking views. Upon landing, begin your trek to Phakding, passing the Dudh Kosi river and the small village of Ghat. Rest for the night in a Phakding teahouse.
Day 6: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m): 5 – 6 hrs Trek
Traverse through pine and fir forests, following the Dudh Kosi River to Namche Bazaar, the Gateway to Everest. Marvel at Mt. Thamserku and relish the steep climb into Sagarmatha National Park, rewarding you with spectacular views. Cross the Hillary Bridge, the highest on your path, before settling in at Namche Bazaar.
Day 7: Rest at Namche Bazaar for Acclimatization
Acclimate at Namche Bazaar, enhancing your trekking experience. Visit the Everest View Hotel, Syangboche Airport, Sherpa Museum, and, if time allows, trek to Khumjung village. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 8: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m): 5 -6 hrs Trek
Embark on a journey to Tengboche, walking beside the Dudh Kosi. Enjoy spectacular mountain views, and visit Tengboche Monastery, home to a massive Buddha statue. Overnight in Tengboche.
Day 9: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,350m): 5 – 6 hrs Trek
Wake up to mountain views and head to Dingboche. Traverse rhododendron and coniferous forests, crossing Imja Khola and Pangboche village. Explore Pangboche Monastery before resting in Dingboche.
Day 10: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940m): 5-6 hrs Trek
Climb gradually to Duglha, then ascend to Chupki Lhara, featuring prayer flags in tribute to mountaineers. Enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam on your way to Lobuche.
Day 11: Lobuche to Pumori Base Camp (5,300m): 6-7 hrs Trek
Embark on the journey to Pumori Base Camp, passing through Gorak Shep and choosing the path to Pumori Base Camp. Settle into a tented camp for the night.
Days 12-14: Rest & Acclimatization in Pumori Base Camp. Visit Everest Base Camp
Acclimatize and prepare at Pumori Base Camp. Familiarize yourself with climbing equipment and visit Everest Base Camp. Return to Pumori Base Camp for the night.
Days 15-32: Climbing Period
Flexible climbing itinerary based on fitness and experience. Acclimate at 5,300m, then ascend to Camp 1 (5,700m), Camp 2 (6,200m), and Camp 3 (6,480m). Summit attempts commence from Camp 3.
Day 33: Pumori Base Camp to Pheriche (4,240m): 6-7 hrs Trek
Descend to Pheriche, passing Lobuche and Thukla Village. Relish magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam. Overnight in Pheriche.
Day 34: Pheriche back to Namche Bazaar (3,440m): 3-4 hrs Trek
Retrace your steps to Namche Bazaar through rhododendron and juniper forests. Cross the Dudh Kosi River and rest in Namche Bazaar.
Day 35: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,804m): 6-7 hrs Trek
Follow your path back to Lukla, crossing suspension bridges and villages. Overnight in Lukla.
Day 36: Fly back to Kathmandu
Board an early morning flight to Kathmandu. Enjoy leisure time or explore the city. Souvenir shopping is an option. Overnight in a Kathmandu hotel.
Day 37: Leisure day in Kathmandu. Farewell Dinner
A leisure day, with a farewell dinner hosted by the company. Reflect on your journey and celebrate with your group and guides. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 38: Transfer to Airport, Departure to Your Destination
Altitude Adventures (A2) Trek organizes a farewell drive to the international airport for your departure. Bid farewell to the remarkable experience in Nepal, carrying memories of an incredible journey.
Cost Includes:
- All land transportation by Car, Van, Hiace, or tourist Bus (Airport/Hotel/Airport, expedition pick up & drop).
- 5 Nights Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu at a 3-star Hotel on Bed & Breakfast plan (before & after the expedition).
- Scheduled flight Ktm/Lukla/ktm for members, Liaison officer & Expedition staff.
- Transport of food supply and expedition equipment to Base Camp & back.
- Full board in lodges during trekking to the base camp and back.
- Base Camp single sleeping tent & Mattress for each member, BC staffs & Liaison Officer.
- All kitchen tent, store tent, dining tents, toilet tent, table, chairs & cooking utensils for Base Camp.
- Food and fuel at Base Camp.
- Service of Government Liaison officer.
- Service of cook and kitchen boy at Base Camp.
- Equipment allowance, daily wages of cook, kitchen boys & Liaison officer.
- Insurance of cook, kitchen boy, Liaison officer, and porters.
- Mt. Pumori expedition permit.
- Sagarmatha National Park entrance fee.
- 2 Expedition duffel bags for each member.
- Generator or Solar panel at Base Camp for light and charging.
- Sat Phone available at Base Camp, but nominal charge for use.
- Emergency medical oxygen at Base Camp.
- Visa extension fee.
- Agency service charge.
- Kathmandu valley sightseeing tour with a private vehicle as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Kathmandu International airport drop.
Cost Excludes:
- International airfare from/to your country.
- Nepal entry visa fee (can be obtained at the airport upon arrival). You need a $30 visa fee for 15 days; cash will be easier.
- Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu.
- Personal climbing gear and equipment above Base Camp.
- High Tents above Base Camp.
- High altitude food and fuel above Base Camp.
- Oxygen & Mask and regulator (will be provided as per request).
- Personal insurance such as travel, accident, medical, emergency evacuation & lost luggage.
- Applicable permit fees and customs charges, etc., for SAT phone, communication equipment & commercial filming.
- International airport departure tax at Kathmandu Airport.
- Expenses of personal nature such as drinks, laundry, postage, telephone, etc.
- Tips and bonuses.
- Garbage deposit.
