Pokhalde Peak, also known as Dolma Ri, lies 12kms southwest of Everest, rising to the north of the Kongma La, above the Khumbu glacier, near Lobuche. Standing at a height of 5,806m, the relatively low altitude of Pokhalde, together with its untechnical nature, make it one of the shortest and easiest trekking peaks in the Himalaya. From the summit, there are superb panoramic views in every direction, particularly of Ama Dablam and Pumori, making an ascent of the peak a worthwhile venture.
As no technical skills are required to reach the summit, this expedition would make an interesting and adventurous trekking experience for alpinists as well as fit, well-acclimatised trekkers wishing to climb a Himalayan peak without the use of normal expedition equipment.
Resembling a crenulated rocky ridge dominated by the vast bulk of Nuptse, the peak has scarcely any snow-covering in the trekking season. Its northern side has a small hanging glacier that is best reached along the ridge rising from the Kongma La. For the most part, the rock on the peak is poor, although it does offer some interesting scrambling on the well-defined ridges.
Pokhalde was first climbed in 1953 by the British Everest Expedition team led by John Hunt who ascended the peak along its north ridge via the Kongma La.
Write a Review