Do you ever have a dream about standing on the top of the world? Do you have the right ingredients and experience? If your answer is yes! Hurry up! We invite you to apply for a position on our Responsible Everest Expedition for 2011 and 2012.
The most popular choice among the mountaineers for Everest expedition is via the South Col which gives the most assured means of reaching the top. Time spent over 8000m is less in the approach to the summit on the south side as the summit is attempted in one push. Furthermore the south route has a good record of success due to the easy access of the route once it is opened by the first summiteers of the season.
The admired Everest expedition trail is followed to reach the base camp for the Everest expedition. A short walk along the moraine leads to the icefall with large crevasses which are considered one of the obstacles for the expedition. Our entirely experienced expedition Sherpa teams fix this section with ropes and ladders which makes easier for the climbers to cross this section to reach Camp 1. The terrain is gradual climb to reach the Camp 2. From here climbing on mixed snow and ice leads way up the Lhotse Face to Camp 3. From the camp 3 climbing on moderate mixed snow and rocks is not easy which leads to South Col- the Camp 4. The route steepens after ascending snow slopes to reach the crest of the South East Ridge and easy climbing and then again steep climbing leads to the South Summit. A short traverse to the Hillary Step and then climbing on short, steep rock and snow groove of notorious Hillary Step leads to the final ridge to the summit.
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport (1345 meters)
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be warmly received by our Airport Representative. A private tourist vehicle will transfer you to the hotel. Enjoy an overnight stay in the vibrant city.
Day 02: Pre-trip Meeting and Kathmandu Sightseeing
After a delicious breakfast at 9 AM, we host a Pre-Trip meeting at your hotel. During this meeting, you’ll be introduced to your climbing Leader/Guide, providing an opportunity for questions and meeting fellow participants. Please notify us if you’ll be arriving late for the Pre-Trip meeting. The meeting requires you to bring your passport, four copies of passport-size photos, travel insurance policy, a writing pen, and a notepad. Following the meeting, embark on a sightseeing trip at 9.45 AM, exploring iconic sites like Bodhnath Stupa, Pashupatinath, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The rest of your time in Kathmandu is free for exploration and shopping. In the evening, receive your Trek Pack and details for the upcoming activities.
Day 03: Official Formalities in Kathmandu
Experience formal briefings in the Ministry of Tourism. The expedition leader will conduct equipment checks. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 04: Final Preparation in Kathmandu
Utilize this day for any last-minute purchases or arrangements. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 05: Fly to Lukla (2804 meters), Trek to Phakding (2610 meters)
Embark on a scenic 35-minute flight to Tenzing and Hillary Airport in Lukla. From there, trek to Phakding (2610 meters) in approximately 3 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 06: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3441 meters)
Continue trekking along the Dudh Kosi River, crossing suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. Enter Sagarmatha National Park and ascend with breathtaking views to reach Namche Bazaar. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 07: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Spend a day acclimatizing and visit the Syangboche Airport around Everest View Hotel for stunning Himalayan views. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 08: Trek to Tengboche Monastery (3860 meters)
Trek along the Dudh Kosi, passing the stunning Tengboche Monastery. Observe prayer ceremonies and ornate wall hangings. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 09: Trek to Dingboche (4350 meters)
Descend to Debuche, cross a suspension bridge on the Imja Khola, and climb to Pangboche. Reach Dingboche with views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 10: Day Trip to Chhukung Valley (4710 meters)
Enjoy another acclimatization day with a trip to Chhukung Valley for magnificent mountain views. Return to Dingboche in the evening. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 11: Trek to Lobuche (4910 meters)
Continue along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, passing stone memorials. Reach Lobuche at 4910 meters. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 12: Trek to Gorak Shep (5180 meters), Hike up to Kalapattar (5555 meters)
Embark on a challenging ascent to Kalapattar (5555 meters) for panoramic mountain views. Descend to Gorak Shep. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 13: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5365 meters)
Contour along the valley side to the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. After 4 hours, reach Everest Base Camp near the foot of the Khumbu Icefall. Overnight in a tented camp.
Day 14 to Day 17: Base Camp Training and Preparation
Acclimatize, learn specialized mountaineering skills, and prepare for the climb, including using oxygen and radios. Rest and get used to the altitude. Explore surrounding areas. Base camp is equipped for comfort with a heated mess tent and individual tents. Sherpas will run loads through the icefall.
Day 18 to Day 61: Climbing Period from Base Camp to Summit and Back
Embark on the climb with camps set at strategic elevations: Camp 1 (6400m), Camp 2 (6750m), Camp 3 (7100m), and Camp 4 (8400m). Ascend through the Khumbu Icefall, Western Cwm, Lhotse Face, and the South East Ridge to the Summit. Experience the breathtaking challenges and rewards of each section. Camps provide essential rest and acclimatization. Descend to lower camps and eventually to Base Camp.
Day 62: Trek down to Pangboche (3930 meters)
Begin the descent, reaching Pangboche with the oldest monastery in the region. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 63: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3441 meters)
Descend through Tengboche Monastery and return to Namche Bazaar. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 64: Trek to Lukla (3404 meters)
Complete the descent, arriving back in Lukla. Reflect on the trek’s achievements and explore the town. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 65: Morning Flight back to Kathmandu
Enjoy a final scenic flight to Kathmandu, where you’ll be met and transferred to the hotel. Celebrate the expedition with a farewell party. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 66: Leisure Day in Kathmandu
A spare day in case of Lukla’s bad weather. Leisure time to explore Kathmandu.
Day 67: Transfer to International Airport for Departure
The expedition concludes. Our Airport Representative will drop you at Kathmandu International Airport for your departure. Until next year, for another thrilling adventure! Please note that the itinerary is flexible due to Everest’s dynamic conditions. Adaptations will be made for the team’s safety and success on the mountain. Participants are encouraged to obtain trip cancellation insurance. Solid mountaineering skills and prior high-altitude experience are prerequisites for this challenging expedition. Participants with a depth of experience have higher chances of success on Everest.
Inclusions that Enrich Your Journey
Airport Tranquility:
- A serene initiation with private car/van/bus pick-up and drop-off services between the airport and your hotel.
Luxurious Abode in Kathmandu:
- Nestle in comfort with six nights of standard twin-sharing accommodation in a three/four-star hotel in Kathmandu, complete with delicious breakfast.
Guided Kathmandu Discovery:
- Embark on a personalized exploration of Kathmandu with a guided city tour, traveling in style by private car/van/bus.
Gastronomic Delights:
- Immerse in a culinary journey with full-board meals during the trek, crafted by our skilled cook. Savor hot tea and coffee in the heart of nature.
Sumptuous Camping Experience:
- Indulge in the luxury of well-equipped camps at base camp and advance base camp. Enjoy fully waterproof dining tents, kitchen essentials, dining table, chairs, toilet tents, and a shower tent.
High-Quality Shelter:
- Retire to high-quality tents at all camps, ensuring a cozy and secure haven amidst the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Safety Net:
- Shielded by comprehensive insurance, including helicopter rescue provision, for all Nepali staff and porters.
Quench Your Thirst:
- Stay hydrated with boiled and purified drinking water during the trek and at the base camp.
Expedition Essentials:
- Traverse with confidence, armed with expedition permits and a liaison officer, including their round-trip flight, insurance, wages, and equipment.
Elevated Culinary Experience:
- Relish high-altitude climbing food, fuel, and gas above the base camp, complemented by our guide, cook, porters, and helpers.
Climbing Sherpas:
- Ascend with support, with a dedicated Sherpa for every team member on the climbing day.
First Aid Vigilance:
- Access a well-stocked first aid and medical kit, designed to address mountaineering ailments.
Emergency Communication Network:
- Stay connected with emergency communication tools on the mountain and a satellite link for helicopter evacuation.
Oxygen Provision:
- Breathe easy with oxygen equipment for medical use, along with a portable hyperbaric chamber (Gamow bag).
Sightseeing Extravaganza:
- Delight in cultural experiences with sightseeing and monument entrance fees covered in Kathmandu.
Welcoming Indulgence:
- Commence your adventure with a warm welcome dinner for members in Kathmandu.
Power on Demand:
- Keep your electronics charged at the Base Camp with solar and generator backup.
Skyward Bound:
- Soar to new heights with round-trip flights from Kathmandu to Lukla, inclusive of airport departure tax at both ends.
Government Blessings:
- Embrace a hassle-free journey, free from government taxes and VAT.
Farewell Celebration:
- Bid adieu with a memorable farewell dinner party in Kathmandu.
Exclusions: The Personal Touch
Gastronomic Choices:
- Lunch and dinner expenses while in Kathmandu.
Security Umbrella:
- Opt for travel insurance covering emergency rescue and evacuation, ensuring your safety at all altitudes.
Journey to Nepal:
- Secure your international airfare and handle the Nepal entry visa fee (tourist visa with multiple entries for 90 days) on arrival in Kathmandu.
Personal Pursuits:
- Delight in personal indulgences such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, and laundry.
Your Equipment, Your Style:
- Equip yourself with personal trekking and climbing gear.
Unforeseen Expenses:
- Plan for any additional expenses not mentioned in the inclusive section.
Environmentally Conscious Deposit:
- Play a part in environmental conservation with a refundable garbage deposit of USD 4000, shared among the climbing group.
Extra Weight, Extra Cost:
- Anticipate excess baggage charges based on your personal belongings.
Guiding Gratitude:
- Express appreciation through the Sherpa tip pool.
Connectivity Choices:
- Manage expenses related to internet and sat phone usage.
Beyond Control Events:
- Be prepared for costs incurred due to delays or events beyond the control of the expedition.
Embark on this transformative journey, knowing you’re in the lap of luxury and surrounded by the majesty of the Himalayas.
