Trek to the secluded Kangshung and Kharta valleys in Tibet and get up close to the East and North faces of Mount Everest. Before reaching the trailhead, enjoy a scenic drive across the picturesque central Tibet highway.

Kangshung Face Mount Everest Trek takes you to one of the most beautiful but least visited areas in Tibet, the Khansung Valley, which is close to the eastern side of Chomolungma or Mount Everest(8848m). This memorable journey takes you across the rugged and beautiful Tibetan countryside dotted with nomadic settlements, traditional villages, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. With the Himalayan range in the background, you cross mountain passes, glaciers, and emerald lakes. 

 Your journey begins with a flight to Lhasa where you spend a couple of days acclimatizing and sightseeing. Visit the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, the bustling Barkhor Market, and the ancient Jokhang Temple. At Drepung and Sera Monasteries, interact with the monks and witness their lively debates.  

Drive past the stunning Yamdrok Tso Lake on the beautiful Friendship Highway and stop at the cities of Gyantse and Shigatse. Our local Tibetan guide will take you to explore the ancient Gyantse Kumbum, Pelkor Chode Monastery, and the Tashilhunpo Monastery. 

You drive to the Kharta Valley and from there take a challenging trail and hike past spectacular Himalayan vistas, along steep-sided valleys and glacial lakes. . As the trail lies in an isolated route you will be staying overnight in camps. Our local crew will set up the camp and serve you nutritious meals. The heavy provisions will be carried by yaks. 

Going on this trek in summer will let you witness heavenly scenes of wildflowers carpeting whole meadows in the Kangshung Valley (popularly known as the 'Valley of Flowers').  You walk up to the rim of Kangshung Glacier and reach the spectacular Kangshung Base Camp. British mountaineers George Mallory and Andrew Irvine had walked on this very trail during their historic but tragic ascent to Mount Everest in 1924. 

From Kangshung Glacier and Kangshung BC, close-up views of Makalu, Lhotse, Mount Everest, and other Tibetan peaks appear mesmerizing. At Langma La Pass (5,330 meters), you reach the highest point of your trek.  From here too you can observe the magnificent Himalayan panorama of Makalu, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, and Mount Everest. 

After your trekking adventure, you will be driven overland to the Nepal-Tibet border. En route, you drive to Rongbuk and stop by Everest Base Camp. Marvel at the close-up view of Mount Everest's North Face. Leaving Tibet you drive to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal via Rasuwagadhi a hotspot for trekkers on the Langtang trail. Your fascinating trip ends in Kathmandu.

Best Time

The ideal seasons for the Kangshung Face Mount Everest Trek are summer and autumn. The weather is not that freezing during these seasons and the alpine meadows turn lush and green. 

Accommodation and Meals

You will be staying at 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Lhasa. At other stopover points, you will be staying at tourist-class hotels or lodges.  Breakfast will be complimentary at the hotel you will be staying at. Other meals are not included in the package.  

Full-board trekking (guide, meals, and accommodation) on the trail. While trekking you will stay at tented camps set up by our local crew. There will be a dining tent and a separate toilet tent. Meals (breakfast lunch and dinner) will be prepared by the kitchen staff. 

Guide and Safety

Our trekking guides are trained and have the required license to guide tourists on dangerous trails. They are locals of the area and have guided several groups along the same route. They have basic knowledge of the English language and can communicate with the clients fairly well. They are trained in wilderness survival and carry with them the required safety kits required for a high-altitude trek.  Ample days for acclimatization are included in your itinerary.

Transportation

A comfortable and well-maintained private vehicle will be reserved for your drive across central Tibet. The chosen driver is experienced and has a valid driving license. 

Is this trip suitable for you?

As this trip involves trekking and driving at a high altitude you need to be physically and mentally prepared. You need to be physically fit and strong to endure a harsh environment. In Tibet the oxygen level will be low, so your lungs should be robust enough to survive in thin air. 

You can start training for your trek at least four months in advance. Try to go on hikes to hilly locations carrying a heavy backpack. Do cardio exercises and pull weights to increase your endurance power. If you have respiratory, heart, and knee ailments this trip is not for you. We advise you to consult your physician before booking this trip.   

Trip Highlights:   

• Trek off-the-beaten-path to the Kharta and Kangshung valleys
• Close up views of East and North faces of Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and other 8000 meter peaks
• Hike across beautiful alpine valleys, yak herders camps, high mountain passes, isolated mountain lakes, and the impressive Kangshung Glacier
• Visit Rongbuk Monastery at the base camp of Mount Everest(North Face)
• Fully organized camping trek(guide, meals, tents, and yaks to carry heavy luggage)
• Explore the cultural hubs of Tibet- Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse 
• Discover the retreats of the Dalai Lama(Potala Palace) and the Panchen Lama(Tashilhunpo Monastery)
• Scenic drive across central Tibet past nomadic settlements and villages

Itinerary: 

Day 1 Arrive in Lhasa (3656m)

Flying into Lhasa is an amazing experience. A chain of snow-clad Himalayan mountains stretching below greets your eyes as your plane makes its way to the Gongarr International Airport. Our representative will be waiting for you at the airport. After greeting you he will drive you to your hotel in Lhasa. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach the main city. 

As Lhasa lies at an altitude above 3000 meters we advise you to take it easy and rest at your hotel. Please bear in mind that your body needs time to adjust to the elevation change, and physically exerting yourself on the first day itself might lead to altitude sickness. Drink plenty of fluids and keep yourself hydrated as dehydration is one of the causes of altitude sickness. 

Overnight at a hotel.

Day 2 Sightseeing in Lhasa(3656m) - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Market

You will spend Days 2 and 3 acclimatizing and sightseeing in Lhasa. 

Your Lhasa sightseeing tour begins right after breakfast. An experienced English-speaking Tibetan guide will take you on a tour to Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Square. 

The gigantic Potala Palace dominates the skyline of Lhasa. Potala used to be the Winter Palace of the Dalai Lama. There are many precious and ancient artifacts (paintings, statues, relics, Buddhist manuscripts, etc) preserved inside the palace. 

Jokhang Temple is one of the most ancient temples in Tibet.  It was built during the seventh century by Tibetan king Songsten Gampo. Barkhor Square, with its open-air stalls shops, and a crowd of pilgrims is the nerve center of Lhasa. After the sightseeing tour, you will return to your hotel.

Overnight at a hotel.

Day 3 Sightseeing in Lhasa(3656m) – Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery

Today you will visit two of Tibet's greatest Buddhist monasteries – Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. Drepung Monastery, built in the fourteenth century had at one time 10,000 monks living under its roof. Sera Monastery is one of the greatest Gelugpa monasteries in Tibet. One can witness monks debating actively on the grounds of the monastery. 

Overnight at a hotel.

Day 4 Drive to Shigatse (3800m) via Gyantse(3977m) – 261km

Leaving Lhasa you will be driven towards Gyantse. It is a scenic drive filled with breathtaking views of the Tibetan landscape. En route you pass through the mesmerizing Yamdrok Tso Lake, Karo La pass (5,200 meters), and the Khamba La pass (4,900 meters). We drive via Gyantse, the third-largest city in Tibet.  Stopping briefly at Gyantse, you get to visit the sacred Pelkor Chode Monastery and the Gyantse Kumbum. Afterward, you continue to your destination Shigatse, the second biggest city in Tibet. Driving past traditional farms and nomadic settlements you finally reach the city.    

Overnight at a hotel. 

Day 5 Drive to New Tingri(4150m) – 245km

Before leaving Shigatse, visit the grand Tashilhumpo Monastery, the seat of the revered Panchen Lama. The monastery houses a gigantic statue of the Maitreyi Buddha built by the ninth Panchen Lama. 

The drive to New Tingri or Shegar is filled with beautiful sights of mountains and fields. The highway goes via Lhatse and the high  Gyatso La pass. 

Overnight at a hotel. 

 Day 6  Drive to Kharta(3690m) – 90km

On the road to Kharta, you get your first view of Mount Everest along with that of Makalu and Cho Oyu. The road meanders on the side of the Dzakaa Chu and Phung Chu rivers. Phung Chu becomes the Arun River as it enters Nepal. On reaching Kharta you take a rest at a local lodge or campsite. The guide will arrange yaks to carry provisions for the trek. Take a good rest as tomorrow you begin your trek. 

Day 7 Trek to Dambu(4295m)

Wake up early and start trekking after breakfast. Following the jeep trail along the banks of a river, you come to the end of the road and cross a bridge. You take the trail that winds above many small settlements set amid barley fields. After trekking for about three kilometers, the trail divides. You follow the trail that goes up towards Shao La. As you ascend you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Kharta Valley and the snowcapped ridges to the east. Today's campsite is on a picturesque pasture below the Shao La pass. 

Overnight at a tented camp. 

Day 8 Trek to Shao Tso(4650m)

Today's walk is filled with mesmerizing views. Walk up a rocky trail and head to the beautiful mountain lake of Shao Tso. It is a short hike of around 3-4 hours. After reaching the beautiful spot the camp is set up. The majestic summit of Mount Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world looks enthralling. You can explore the area around the lake and take pictures. The kitchen crew will prepare hot and nutritious meals for you. 

Overnight at a tented camp. 

Day 9 Trek to Joksom(3980m) via Shao La(4900m)

You take an early start and climb up to Shao La Pass (4,970 meters). The top of the pass is decorated with colorful prayer flags and stone cairns. En route enjoy stunning views of Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,501m), and Makalu (8,475m). After reaching the top you take a steep descent past alpine pastures to Kaamo Tsangpo Valley. The camp is set up at Joksam amid birch, juniper, and rhododendron trees.

Overnight at a tented camp. 

Day 10 Trek to Thangsum(4480m)

The trail goes up steeply into a lush forest filled with juniper trees. Unlike the rest of Tibet where the landscape is barren and almost treeless, the area here is filled with lush greenery. We are close to the Nepalese border and the mountains of Makalu, Lhotse, and Everest can be seen from the trail. The glacier tumbling down the Makalu and the Arun River flowing down to Nepal appear spectacular. Walk past several doksas or seasonal camps of yak herders to reach Thangsum. 

Overnight at a tented camp.

Day 11 Trek to Pethang(4240m)

More panoramic sights are in store as you make your way to Pethang. Walk past an alpine meadow flanked by snowcapped peaks and glaciers.  En route, you get to view the massive Kangshung Glacier and Kandoshung Glacier. The trail skirts the sacred lake Tsechu Tso and a meditation cave dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, the Second Buddha. 

If not tired, you can walk up to the sacred lake. At the far end of the lake is a sacred cave, where Padmasambhava, the lotus-born Buddha, is believed to have meditated during his journeys through Tibet. Inside the cave are religious relics and prayer rooms, where pilgrims normally make offerings.  

After exploring the lake and the cave head to Pethang.

Overnight at a tented camp.

Day 12 Trek to Pethang Ringmo(4960m)

From Pethang, take an upward trail to the rim of the Khangsung Glacier. Walk carefully and slowly as the trail is narrow and exposed.  The view of Mount Everest and Lhotse continue to enthrall. A few hours of walking brings you to the camp at Pethang Ringmo. It is set in a grassy meadow beneath the majestic Chomo Lonzo Peak (7,790 meters). 

Overnight at a tented camp.

Day 13 Rest Day -  Pethang Ringmo(4960m)

A much-deserved rest day for acclimatization at Pethang Ringmo before venturing to higher altitude. You can explore the nearby area or spend the day lazing around at the camp. 

Overnight at a tented camp. 

Day 14 Trek to Kangshung BC(5090m)

You take a gradual ascent up the grassy ridges to Kangshung Base Camp (5,090 meters). En route, you cross Hoppo. Arriving at the snout of the Kangshung Glacier, you are presented with a grand view of the magnificent Kangshung(East) Face of Mount Everest. Additionally awesome views of the North East Ridge of Mount Everest can be enjoyed. The Kangshung Base Camp is the site where expedition groups start their climb to Mount Everest from its east face. Enjoy incredible views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. 

Overnight at a tented camp.

Day 15 Trek to Langma La Base(4800m)

Make your way down to the valley and towards Langma La. Walking past picturesque yak pastures and mesmerizing views of Himalayan peaks you arrive at Shurimo (4,800 meters), at the base of the Langma La pass.  The camp is set up at the base of the mighty mountain pass. Panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains surround the camp. 

Overnight at a tented camp. 

Day 16 Trek to Lundrubling (3990m) via Langma La(5330m)

You ascend to the top of Langma La from where you get outstanding views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. From the pass (5,330 meters) we take a steep descent to the valley floor. Walking past herders' camps you arrive at Kharta Valley. From here savor a magnificent view of the Kanchenjunga massif rearing above the ridges beyond Kharta, on the Nepal- Sikkim border. Make your way to  Lundrubling village where the camp is set up. 

Overnight at a tented camp.

Day 17 Trek to Kharta (3690m)

Today you take the final walk to Kharta village. Your trekking adventure ends here. After setting up camp you look forward to your drive to Rongbuk and Everest Base Camp. 

Overnight at a lodge.

Day 18 Drive to Rongbuk (5100m) – 120km

Driving from Kharta you head towards Rongbuk via Phadhruchi village. Rongbuk Monastery at 5100m is the highest Buddhist monastery in the world. From here you get close-up views of Mount Everest. You stay overnight at Rongbuk. 

Overnight at a lodge. 

Day 19 Explore Everest Base Camp and drive from Rongbuk to Kyirong (4050m) – 370km

Today you explore the Rongbuk glacier and Everest Base Camp. Located 300 meters south of the monastery is the beautiful Rongbuk Glacier. The natural ice pinnacles and formations at the glacier are a joy to photograph. Hiking above the monastery you reach Everest Base Camp and witness the amazing close-up view of the North Face of Mount Everest.it is indeed thrilling to stand next to the highest mountain in the world.  Later you trek down and leave the Rongbuk valley and drive to Kyirong. En route, you cross Old Tingri and enjoy spectacular views of Shisapangma and other peaks. 

Overnight at a hotel.

Day 20 Drive to Kathmandu (1400m) – 153km

You wake up early in the morning to cross over to Nepal. After the immigration process, you walk the short distance to the Nepal side and drive to Kathmandu. There are off-road sections that maybe bumpy, but the views of the hills and mountains are breathtaking. After a 7-8 hour ride, you finally reach Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Your adventure finally ends here. 

Overnight at a hotel. 

Day 21 Depart Kathmandu

You will be driven to the Tribhuvan International Airport well on time to catch your flight. If you want to explore Nepal please let us know. There are many cultural sites and adventure spots that are worth discovering.

PRICE INCLUDES

• Arrival & Departure Transfers By Private Vehicle
• B&B Accommodation In Kathmandu At A 3 Star Hotel On A Twin-Share Basis
• Complete Camping Equipment For Trekking
• Accommodation & Meals While Trekking
• Food & Camping At Base Camp For Members & Staff
• Expedition Permit (Shared Basis) & National Park Fee (Wherever Applicable)
• 1 Tent Per Climber At Base Camp
• 2 Base Camp Staff (1 Cook & 1 Kitchen Boy)
• 1 Liaison Officer Plus Daily Wages, Equipment & Insurance
• Staff Wages, Equipment Allowance & Insurance
• Required Number Of Porters (Porters To Carry Up To 30kgs Each) Including Food & Equipment
• Domestic Airfare (Strictly As Per Itinerary) For Members & Staff
• Cargo Fees (Strictly As Per Itinerary)
• Cargo Clearance & Duty Fees
• All Surface Transfers As Per The Itinerary
• Farewell Dinner At Authentic Nepali Restaurant With Cultural Program

PRICE EXCLUDED

• Nepal Visa Fee
• Unch And Dinner During Your Stay In Kathmandu (Except Farewell Dinner)
• High-Altitude Climbing Sherpa
• Any Packed Food/Snacks, Aerated Drinks, Energy Drinks, Mineral Water, Alcohol, Cigarettes, Chocolates, Nutria-Bars During Trekking.
• Items Of Personal Nature, Laundry Expenses, Tips
• Expenses Incurred Towards Usage Of Landlines, Mobiles, Walkie-Talkies Or Satellite Phones And Internet Expenses
• Clothing, Packing Items Or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears
• Any Extra Services Or Products Or Offers Or Activities Which Are Not Mentioned In The Itinerary
• Any Extra Expenses Arising Out Of Various/Unforeseen Situations Like Natural Calamities, Landslides, Political Disturbances, Strikes, Changes In Government Regulations
• Any Additional Staff Other Than Specified.
• Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests And Hospitalization Expenses.
• Medical Insurance And Emergency Rescue Evacuation If Required.
• Travel Insurance And Helicopter Rescue.
• Personal Climbing Gears
• Supplemental Oxygen
• Filming Permit (If Special Camera)
• Cargo Customs Clearance Duty Fees
• Tips, Gifts, Souvenirs.
• Any Other Item Not Included In “Included” Section