The complete Khumbu — two summits, one iconic base camp, 29 extraordinary days
The Khumbu Explorer is CAT’s most ambitious Khumbu itinerary. It combines the region’s greatest viewpoints, its most iconic destination and two genuine high-altitude summits into a single 29-day expedition that covers ground most trekkers never see even on multiple separate trips.
From Lukla, the route climbs through the Sherpa heartland to Gokyo — ascending Gokyo Ri (5,360m) for the finest panoramic view of Everest from any non-summit point in Nepal. Then across the Cho La pass into the Khumbu Valley, where Lobuje East (6,119m) awaits — a technically demanding summit with an exposed arête leading to the true top. From Lobuje, the trek continues to Everest Base Camp itself, then over the Kongma La to Island Peak (6,189m) for the final summit. A magnificent close to an extraordinary journey.
This is a trip for people who have experience at altitude, who are comfortable on technical ground, and who want to see the Khumbu in its entirety rather than one piece at a time.
Your Khumbu Explorer booking includes a £50 direct donation to Community Action Nepal. The Sherpa communities of the Khumbu Valley have been supported by CAN for over 30 years. Your booking helps sustain that work.
Land only · flights not included
Includes £50 CAN donation
The Khumbu Explorer runs on your dates for your group. Minimum 4 climbers. Best season October and November. Enquire and we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Enquire & Book Book a Free CallNo commitment at enquiry stage. We reply within 24 hours with availability and a full briefing pack.
Two very different climbs. Two extraordinary rewards.
The more technically demanding of the two peaks. The ascent via the south ridge involves an exposed arête leading to the true summit — fine, narrow and thrilling. The views of Everest and the Nuptse/Lhotse wall from the high camp are spectacular. Approached via the Cho La pass from the Gokyo Valley, with base camp at a beautiful hidden lake at 5,000m.
After Everest Base Camp, the route crosses the Kongma La to Island Peak base camp — approached with Ama Dablam to the right and the Nuptse/Lhotse wall on the left. Technically more straightforward than Lobuje East but higher, and reached at the end of an already demanding expedition. The summit panorama is one of the finest in the Khumbu.
29 days across the complete Khumbu
Welcome meeting, kit checks, permits. Free day to explore Kathmandu temples and markets.
Arrival3am departure, drive to Ramechhap, 16-min flight to Lukla. First steps on the trail to Phakding.
2,600mClimb through the Dudh Kosi valley to Namche. Full acclimatisation day — visit the monastery and Everest View Hotel.
3,440mVia Phortse Tenga, Dole, Machermo to Gokyo. Gradual ascent with acclimatisation days. The turquoise Gokyo lakes.
4,790mPre-dawn climb to Gokyo Ri (5,360m) — the finest panoramic Everest view in Nepal. Cho Oyu to Ama Dablam. Then across to Dragnag.
Summit 1: 5,360mCross the Cho La (5,420m) — snow conditions permitting — into the Khumbu Valley. First views of Lobuje East summit ridge.
5,420m PassBase camp at the hidden lake (5,000m). Acclimatisation day. High camp at 5,500m. Summit via the south ridge arête. Long summit day, descent to base camp.
Summit 2: 6,119mTrek to Lobuje village. Full day to Everest Base Camp (5,500m) and back — the sight of so many hopes and aspirations. Return to Lobuje.
EBC: 5,500mCross the Kongma La (5,545m) to Chukhung, then to Island Peak base camp. High camp on the southern slopes.
4,970m → 5,700mEarly start from high camp. Fixed ropes on the headwall. Summit ridge at dawn. Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu all around. Descent to base camp.
Summit 3: 6,189mTrek back via Pangboche and Thyangboche monastery. Final views of Ama Dablam and Everest. Fly Lukla to Ramechhap, drive to Kathmandu.
ReturnFinal day in Kathmandu — shopping, sightseeing, celebration dinner. Departure transfer.
DepartureOne spare/contingency day built in. Detailed day-by-day itinerary provided on enquiry.
Everything for two summits
- 4 nights hotel in Kathmandu on arrival & departure
- Domestic flights Kathmandu ↔ Lukla via Ramechhap
- All lodge accommodation on approach sections
- All camping equipment at both base camps and high camps
- Full board throughout — all meals from Lukla to return
- Expert Sherpa climbing sirdar & assistant guides
- Climbing support Sherpa on both summit days
- All porterage — main bag carried throughout
- All group technical equipment (ropes, stakes, screws)
- Lobuje East and Island Peak NMA permits
- All national park and conservation area fees
- Group first aid kit and emergency oxygen
- £50 Community Action Nepal donation per person
- Pre-departure kit list and expedition briefing pack
What to budget for
- International flights to/from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa (approx. US$50, on arrival)
- Personal sleeping bag (rated to −20°C)
- Personal technical equipment (crampons, ice axe, harness, jumar, helmet)
- Travel and expedition insurance (mandatory, must cover 6,500m+)
- Personal spending, tips and souvenirs (allow £250)
- Emergency evacuation costs (covered by insurance)
Insurance note. Your policy must cover mountaineering to at least 6,500m and include emergency helicopter evacuation. Standard travel insurance is not sufficient.
The Khumbu Explorer is priced at £2,495pp land only. Fill in the form and we’ll come back within 24 hours with availability, a full briefing pack, and an honest assessment of your readiness.
No commitment at enquiry stage
This is a serious undertaking — we’ll be honest about whether you’re ready
Minimum 4 climbers — solo enquiries welcome
Best season October and November, spring also possible
Our team will review your background and respond within 24 hours with availability and a full briefing pack. Email hello@catreks.com if it’s urgent.