Everest 2006
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Highlights of the Hinku, Hongu and Khumbu Trek
A challenging trekking and climbing trip into the heart of the Himalaya all in the shadow of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Makalu and Cho Oyu! With summit climbs of Mera and Island Peaks! 27 Days!
Kathmandu: A unique stop for the international traveler. Lots of fascinating temples and markets! 1 day here seeing the sights. We'll organize permits for trekking and climbing. While in Kathmandu we will see Pashupatinath, Syhumbunath, Bodanath and Durbar Square, fascinating Buddhist and Hindu temples all with long interesting histories.
Lukla: We fly into Lukla at 9,000 ft. in either a small 16 passenger Twin Otter fixed wing aircraft or 30 passenger Russian helicopter. Excellent views, lodges and food! This is the start and end of our trek.
Zentra La Pass: Just 3 days out of Lukla lies the Zetra La pass, the entrance that leads to the isolated Hinku Vally. There are no teahouses in this area and it demands some commitment and self sufficiency. After the Zetra La, we enter an area of Nepal that has not changed for many years. We leave the crowds of the Khumbu region behind. We use our own cook at this point, completely self contained.
Hinku Valley: Away from the major trekking routes, spectacular views of Tamserku, Kangtega, Kusm Kanguru
Mera Peak Climb: One of Nepals highest “trekking” peaks, Mera offers a great experience to climb to over 21,000 ft. An easy technical snow climb.
Hongu Valley: The isolated Hongu Valley is the highlight of this trek. All over 15,000 ft and rising to the Amphu Labsa pass at over 19,000 ft. This is home for a beautiful collection of “Pokharis” or lakes, culminating in the huge Panch Pokori area at the very head of the valley below Sherpani Col and Amphu Labsa Pass.. Spectacular mountains rise along both sides of this narrow valley, actually too steep to bring Yaks into. Snows can make this region inaccessible and a logistical problem to retreat from (we build in a margin for safety and escape in this event).
Imjase Climb (Island Peak): Into the Chukung Valley and up to the summit of Imjatse via the normal southeast face, or the south ridge, moderate snow and ice climbing (this climb is completely optional if you prefer to only participate in the trek). If you do not want to climb Imjatse, we have a trek to the base of Lhotse’s south face planned or optionally you can travel up the Khumbu Valley to try Kala Patar with one of our Sherpas, this is an easier 18,000 ft. trekking summit across the glacier from Everest and the Khumbu Icefall, spectacular!
Tyangboche Monastary: We’ll visit the very important monastery here that is the center of the Sherpa peoples religion. It has been rebuilt after a major fire in the late 80's. Another day here to acclimatize with Mt. Everest, Tamserku, Kangtaga and Ama Dablam dominating the horizons!
Namche Bazaar: This is the cultural center of the Khumbu. Home for the weekly market where traders from the lowlands trade with the highland Sherpa people. A good stop for relaxing a bit on the way out. We spend one day here to see ad experience the heart of the Khumbu and the cultural center of the Sherpas.
Fly back to Kathmandu: Time to relax, shop or visit more temples in fascinating Kathmandu. Plan some time in Thailand on the way back to enjoy the beaches. Most tickets to the U.S. go through Bangkok.
Included: Transfers, trekking permits, NMA climbing permit, local transportation, park fees, porters and yaks, all meals and lodging (except in Kathmandu), group climbing/camping equipment, 1 American guide and 1 or 2 Sherpa guides.
Not Included: Airfare to/from Kathmandu and flights to/from Lukla (approximately $192), visas and departure taxes, food and lodging in Kathmandu, tips, bottled water, soda, and alcohol. Note, you will be responsible for any additional costs associated with delays due to flights and weather. Lodging upgrades available for Kathmandu, $200 for the Annapurna Hotel (2 nights).
Length: 27 days Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult trekking at altitude. To climb Mera Peak, glacier travel at high altitude with crampons. For Island Peak, moderate technical snow and ice climbing.
Altitude: Our schedule is carefully designed to maintain a safe rate of ascent, the most important factor at altitude. Mera Peak is over 21,200 ft and Island Peak is (over 20,000 ft.)
Trip Price: Please see schedule for current prices and departure dates.