If you dont have much experience and are looking for an easier peak to climb, Pokalde peak climbing could be the right option for you. Located in the Khumbu region, closer to Everest, Pokalde is just above 5000m.
Even though it is only above 5000m, the experience, along with the opportunity to climb with The Trek Nepal, would be nothing short of wonderful. However, you need to have a basic idea of peak climbing even for Pokalde peak climbing.
Pokalde Peak Climbing Overview
Pokalde Peak stands at an altitude of 5806m. Present in the Khumbu region, this particular peak is only miles away from the famous Everest summit.
Some of the climbers say that the beauty of Pokalde has been hidden by the likes of Lhotse ridge, but there is no less beauty to talk about. Peaks like Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Pumori add to the overall beauty of Pokalde.
It takes just more than 2 weeks to complete the climb, so time is never a concern here. With Everest being the major attraction of the area, you will find plenty of other climbers during the journey.
Climbing Route to Pokalde Peak
Pokalde peak climbing follows the iconic Khumbu region and Everest climb. Therefore, the overall climbing route to Pokalde Peak also looks the same.
The journey starts with the flight to Lukla, which is a scary ride. Meanwhile, we will start the journey towards Namche Bazaar after that. Villages like Phakding and Monjo will be around us.
In the peak season, you will find oak, pine, and rhododendron right along the way. Passing along the way, we reach landmarks like Tengboche, Kalapatthar, and later to Chhukung valley.
At the south of Chhukung valley, you will find Pokalde peak smiling right back at you. Climbers should go through the Kongma La Pass. As we enjoy the time at the summit, we will return to the base camp and follow the footsteps back.
Highlights of Pokalde Peak Climbing
- Witness the outstanding peaks like Everest, Pumori, Nuptse, Lhotse, etc
- Interact with the local Sherpa community and understand their culture and lifestyle
- Visit the culturally rich Tengboche monastery, which is the oldest and spiritual hub of the region
- Enjoy the wonderful flight to Lukla
Who Climbed Pokalde Peak For The First Time?
History and records go way back when we talk about Pokalde peak climbing. Present in the famous Khumbu region, you understand that Pokalde peak was first climbed in the early 50’s.
Yes, the first ever climb to Pokalde took place in April 1953. Present in the famous Khumbu region, it was hard not to climb Pokalde for experienced climbers.
Pokalde peak climbing was part of the historic British Everest expedition team, which was led by John Hunt. The north ridge was used for the climb as they passed through Kongma La Pass.
There are some records of J.O. M. Roberts and Sen Tenzing performing the same climb on 20th May, 1953. However, the first was done by John Hunt.
Food and Accommodation During Pokalde Peak Climbing
Similar to a lot of other treks in Nepal, you will find the most common and basic food and accommodation at the higher altitudes. During your stay in Kathmandu, the food and accommodation will be top-notch with variety.
As you climb higher on the 18-day Pokalde peak climbing journey, the accommodation generally revolves around tea houses, lodges, and even camps at the base camp.
All the climbers will be provided with the best facilities that are available at the place. Clean beds, hot showers, and comfortable facilities will be provided at the tea houses.
All the tea houses and lodges will be locally run. Meanwhile, the Trek Nepal team will set up camps with all the best facilities.
Talking about the food, though, it will be prepared by the team. In the local tea houses, you will find organic food options. In order to get the best out of the trek, we will go for authentic Nepali dal bhaat and a balanced diet.
Breakfast and dinner will be provided at the place of stay, while lunch will be done on the road. Daal Bhaat, egg items, bread, and noodles will be present at the higher altitude.
A medical staff from The Trek Nepal will prepare the food list, which will keep you in good shape during the overall experience. We suggest climbers have an energy bar and nuts during the climb for higher energy.
Permits Needed for Pokalde Peak Climb
As Pokalde is surrounded by some of the famous peaks, including the Everest, you need to understand that all the permits will be similar.
Booking with the right agency, like The Trek Nepal, would also mean that you could get all the permits without any effort. But if you are doing it on your own, Pokalde peak climbing requires specific permits.
They are:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
- Trekkers Information Management System Card
- Pokalde Peak Climbing Permit
Cost of Pokalde Peak Climbing
The overall cost of climbing Pokalde Peak totally depends on the individual. Having said that, the bigger the group, there will be higher the chance of a deduction in cost.
On average, Pokalde peak climbing would cost you around $2000 to $3000. This cost could increase and decrease based on the quality of the service you wish to take.
With this price, you could easily perform the Pokalde peak climbing. However, the cost would be different based on the size, itinerary, and time of the year.
Under this cost, everything will be covered for you. Permits for food, accommodation, and other amenities will be covered. The private expenses like tips to porters, flight ticket for return, and buying personal souvenirs won’t be covered under it.
Alternative Treks to Pokalde Peak Climbing
Not everyone loves to do the Pokalde peak climbing. As a result of that, The Trek Nepal brings you options that are similar to Pokalde peak climbing.
As Pokalde Peak lies in the Everest region, there are plenty of alternative trekking options which clients can choose from.
Meanwhile, alternative treks to Pokalde peak climbing include:
- Island Peak
- Lobuche East Peak
- Chulu West Peak
- Gokyo Lakes Trek
Detailed Itinerary About Pokalde Peak Climbing
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,310m) – Transfer, Briefing & Welcome Dinner
Your Pokalde Peak Climbing journey begins with arrival in Kathmandu, where you are welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After some time to rest, the team conducts a detailed briefing covering the full expedition plan, safety protocols, and route overview. In the evening, a traditional Nepali welcome dinner introduces you to local culture while giving you the chance to meet fellow climbers and guides. This first day sets the tone for your Pokalde Peak Climbing adventure, blending preparation with cultural immersion.
Day 2: Preparation Day in Kathmandu
This day is dedicated to finalizing all logistics for the Pokalde Peak Climbing expedition. Permits and paperwork are completed, and a formal team meeting is held with your expedition leader. Gear inspection is a key part of the day, ensuring all equipment meets safety standards. If needed, Kathmandu’s trekking hubs like Thamel offer a wide range of climbing gear for rent or purchase. This preparation phase is essential to ensure a smooth and safe climb ahead.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,800m) and Trek to Phakding (2,640m)
An early morning flight takes you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. The short but thrilling flight offers stunning Himalayan views. From Lukla, the trek begins along the Dudh Koshi River, passing mani walls and small Sherpa settlements like Ghat. The relatively gentle trail leads to Phakding, making it a comfortable first trekking day and a perfect start to your Pokalde Peak Climbing journey.
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,446m)
The trail from Phakding to Namche Bazaar includes crossing suspension bridges and passing through Monjo, the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. After permit checks, a steep ascent leads to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa capital. Along the way, you may catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Namche serves as a major acclimatization hub and a lively center of trade and culture.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Acclimatization is crucial for successful Pokalde Peak Climbing. You explore nearby landmarks such as the Sherpa Museum and hike to Syangboche Airstrip or Everest View Hotel for panoramic mountain views. Peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse dominate the skyline. This active rest day helps your body adjust to altitude while enriching your understanding of Sherpa culture.
Day 6: Trek to Tengboche (3,800m)
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River before climbing through forests to Tengboche. A highlight here is Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the region. Surrounded by towering peaks, the monastery offers a peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Evening prayers and sunset views over Everest and Ama Dablam make this a memorable stop during your Pokalde Peak Climbing itinerary.
Day 7: Trek to Pheriche (4,200m)
Descending briefly before climbing again, the trail passes Pangboche, home to one of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu region. Crossing the Imja River, you continue to Pheriche, a high-altitude settlement with a medical post specializing in altitude sickness. The landscape becomes more rugged as you move closer to your Pokalde Peak Climbing objective.
Day 8: Trek to Lobuche (4,900m)
The route ascends gradually past Dughla and the memorial area dedicated to climbers lost in the Himalayas. This emotional landmark highlights the challenges of high-altitude climbing. Continuing onward, you reach Lobuche, surrounded by dramatic हिमालयन peaks like Cholatse and Lobuche East.
Day 9: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,150m) via Kala Patthar (5,545m)
An early hike to Kala Patthar offers one of the best viewpoints of Mount Everest. The sunrise over Everest and surrounding peaks is a major highlight of the Pokalde Peak Climbing journey. After taking in the views, you descend and continue to Gorak Shep, a remote settlement near Everest Base Camp.
Day 10: Everest Base Camp (5,364m) Excursion
From Gorak Shep, you trek to Everest Base Camp, walking alongside the Khumbu Glacier and Icefall. This iconic location is filled with expedition tents during climbing season. After spending time at base camp, you return to Gorak Shep for the night, completing one of the most rewarding segments before heading toward Pokalde Peak.
Day 11: Trek to Pokalde Base Camp (5,200m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m)
Crossing the challenging Kongma La Pass, you enter a quieter and more remote section of the Khumbu region. The pass offers breathtaking views of glacial lakes and surrounding peaks. From here, you descend slightly to reach Pokalde Base Camp, where preparations for the summit begin.
Day 12: Pokalde Summit (5,806m) and Return to Base Camp
The highlight of your Pokalde Peak Climbing expedition begins early in the morning. The ascent involves rocky and steep terrain, but it is technically straightforward. From the summit, you are rewarded with panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and other major हिमालयन peaks. After celebrating the achievement, you descend back to base camp.
Day 13: Trek to Chhukung (3,710m)
Leaving base camp, you retrace your steps via Kongma La Pass and descend toward Chhukung. This small settlement lies in the Imja Valley and offers stunning close-up views of Lhotse and Island Peak. It serves as a peaceful resting point after your successful Pokalde Peak Climbing summit.
Day 14: Trek to Pangboche via Chhukung Ri
An optional hike to Chhukung Ri provides additional panoramic views before descending toward Pangboche. The trail passes through alpine landscapes filled with rhododendron and juniper. Pangboche Monastery adds cultural depth to the day’s journey.
Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Descending through forests and crossing suspension bridges, you return to Namche Bazaar. The familiar route offers a different perspective on the landscape, allowing reflection on your Pokalde Peak Climbing achievement.
Day 16: Trek to Lukla (2,830m)
Continuing the descent, you follow the Dudh Koshi River back to Lukla. This final trekking day marks the completion of your Himalayan journey, with a sense of accomplishment shared among the team.
Day 17: Fly Back to Kathmandu
A morning flight returns you to Kathmandu, concluding your Pokalde Peak Climbing expedition. Back in the city, you can relax, celebrate your success, and reflect on the incredible journey through the Everest region.