Lobuche is a Nepalese mountain which lies close to the Khumbu Glacier and the settlement of Lobuche. Lobuche Peak has two different summits, one is Lobuche East Peak (6119m) and the other is Lobuche West Peak (6145m). The peak of Lobuche East is reached by descending a marked notch and climbing steep snowy slopes to the top. Lobuche east climbing through the south ridge route is more popular whereas Lobuche west is more difficult. Here is a detail of Lobuche Peak Climbing along with Lobuche Peak Climbing Difficulty.
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Difficulty Level
Lobuche East Peak climbing usually requires 5-6 hours of walking every day. But on the day of the summit, you need to walk for 8-10 hours. The steep stone terraces and snowy slopes above the base camp are hard to climb.
The safe expedition to the peak requires knowledge of climbing techniques. Also not to ignore the risk of altitude problems.
During the climb, you must walk 50m on a 45-degree snow wall. For that, you use fixed lines to ensure that you reach the proper summit ridge. And the final sharp ascent is life-threatening.
Lobuche West Peak Climbing considered one of Everest region’s most popular trekking peaks, Lobuche West at 6145 meter offers a variety of existing routes with scope for new lines too.
The climb to Lobuche peak consists of some really difficult steep snow slopes which constantly require work of fixed ropes. Upon reaching the top of Lobuche West you can enjoy the awe-inspiring view of Ama Dablam and Taweche. To add to the beauty of the expedition, while reversing from the peak, we move towards Gorak Shep and Kala Pattar, which endows us with magnificent views of Mighty Everest.
Lobuche West expedition is a challenge but the sense of reward and experience will stay with you forever.
Best Time for Lobuche Peak Climbing
Autumn and Spring are the best time for treks and climbs in the Nepalese Himalayas. You will get the best of this trip during this time.
The dry, most stable and favorable weather conditions add ease to the trek/ climb. Some people attempt the climb during winter also. However, by choosing the snowy winter you are adding risks to your climb.
The higher precipitation and unbearable cold reduce the percentage of a successful climb. Can you afford to risk your life? If not, choose the right time before you go, especially, if you are a novice climb.
Difficulties during Lobuche Peak climb
- The ascending trail from Lobuche village is highly steep and rocky. Thus, the walk up to the Lobuche Base Camp is tiresome.
- Lobuche East Peak climbing usually requires 5-6 hours of walking every day. But on the day of the summit, you need to walk for 8-10 hours.
- The steep stone terraces and snowy slopes above the base camp are hard to climb. For this climb, you must learn the use of ropes.
- High Camp, 5600 m awaits you beyond the slippery iced or snowed stones. The stone slabs are too steep and risky as well.
- The 45-degree snow wall climb before reaching the summit ridge is challenging. We use fixed lines. A 50 m ascend through the wall is much risk.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
At high altitude, your cardio-pulmonary system is affected by low oxygen density and you can suffer from general breathing difficulties to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) as well as your skin is susceptible to sunburn if not protected by clothes or sunblock. The AMS is preventable through appropriate trekking pace and undertaking acclimatization.
Temperatures during Lobuche Peak Climb
Early mornings and late nights are never too warm in the Himalayas. You will need warm gear for this time while traveling at any time of the year.
In Autumn the average temperature at Lobuche remains around – 5-degree Celsius. While in Spring it is around – 2-degree Celsius. In winter it is around -9-degree Celsius wheres in Summer it is around 5-degree Celsius.
Temperatures at the lower altitudes are a bit warmer. The more you ascend towards higher altitudes, then you’ll feel gradually descending temperature.
Essential Gear for Lobuche Peak Climbing
It is what gears and equipment you take along during your trip that determines how difficult it is going to be. For Lobuche Peak climbing too you must be careful while packing your bags. Along with your packing lists for the trip, you must carry extra mountaineering gear. They include
- Climbing helmet
- Climbing boot
- Crampons
- Climbing harness
- Ascending device
- Descending device
- Ice axe
- Carabiners
- Prusik loop
- Tape sling
- Gloves
- Down jackets
- Waterproof jackets and trousers
- Sunglasses
These are a must for your successful climbing and descends to the summit.
