Amphu Lapcha Pass

Overview
Itinerary
Inclusions
Gallery
Trip Notes

Overview

Season

March–May and September–November

Grade

advanced

Group Size

1-20 Pax

Max Altitude

6,476m

Duration

17 Days

6,476 m Peak | 5,845 m High Pass | Nepal Himalaya

The Amphu Lapcha Pass is one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding alpine adventures, combining the ascent of Nepal’s highest trekking peak with a technical high Himalayan pass crossing. This expedition is ideal for climbers seeking more than a standard trekking peak—offering high altitude exposure, glacier travel, rope techniques, and a true expedition-style experience.

Mera Peak (6,476 m) provides an exceptional introduction to high-altitude mountaineering, with panoramic summit views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Kanchenjunga. The journey is elevated further by the Amphu Lapcha Pass (5,845 m)—a demanding crossing involving steep snow, ice slopes, fixed ropes, and controlled abseiling into the Imja Valley.

The expedition follows a carefully designed acclimatization schedule, allowing climbers to adapt gradually while gaining technical confidence. With professional guides, trained Sherpa support, and full logistical backing, the expedition balances safety, progression, and adventure, making it one of the most complete alpine programs in the Nepal Himalaya.

This trip is best suited for experienced trekkers or entry-level mountaineers who are physically fit and ready to transition into technical alpine terrain.

Itinerary

17 Days • Itinerary Overview

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to rest and recover from your journey. In the evening, a short briefing introduces the expedition schedule.

Day 02

Sightseeing and Preparation day

This day is reserved for sightseeing and expedition preparations. You will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Meanwhile, the team finalizes climbing permits, organizes logistics, and checks equipment.

Day 03

Kathmandu – Lukla – Chutanga (2,860 m – 3,020 m)

Start your adventure with an early morning scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Upon arrival, meet your guide and porters and begin trekking along the Dudh Koshi River. Pass through pine forests and small Sherpa villages before reaching Chutanga (3,020 m), a peaceful settlement surrounded by towering peaks. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 04

Chutanga – Thuli Kharka (3,020 m – 4,100 m) via Zatrwa La Pass (4,600 m)

The trek today takes you to Thuli Kharka via the dramatic Zatrwa La Pass at 4,600 m. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Mera Peak, Kusum Kanguru, and the surrounding glaciers. Descend slightly to Thuli Kharka (4,100 m), where you camp amid breathtaking mountain scenery.

Day 03

Thuli Kharka – Kothe (4,182 m)

Continue trekking through glacial moraines and rocky ridges, with South Mera Peak dominating the skyline. Arrive at Kothe (4,182 m), a small settlement used by climbers and herders, and spend the night in tents surrounded by alpine scenery.

Day 04

Kothe – Thaknak (4,358 m)

Walk along the west side of the Hinku Valley with magnificent views of Mera Peak and surrounding glaciers. Reach Thaknak (4,358 m), a small settlement offering a glimpse into the life of local climbers and herders. Overnight in a tented camp.

Day 05

Thaknak – Khare (5,045 m)

Trek up a steep but rewarding route to Khare, the base camp of Mera Peak. Relax and prepare for the high-altitude summit climb. Optional short hikes around Khare help with acclimatization and offer fantastic views of nearby peaks.

Day 06

Acclimatization Day in Khare (5,045 m)

Take a rest day to acclimatize properly. Optional hikes to nearby ridges allow for altitude adaptation while enjoying stunning Himalayan panoramas.

Day 07

Kongma Dingma – Rest Day

Rest day to recover from the summit climb. Optional short hikes around the camp provide acclimatization and additional photo opportunities of the surrounding peaks.

Day 08

Trek to Seto Pokhari (5,035 m, 5–6 hours)

Trek through high alpine terrain with moraines, glaciers, and small streams. Reach Seto Pokhari, a peaceful glacial lake offering serene mountain reflections and spectacular scenery.

Day 09

Seto Pokhari – Amphu Lapcha Base Camp (5,500 m, 5–6 hours)

Follow the challenging alpine terrain to reach Amphu Lapcha Base Camp. Camp here amid dramatic ridges and glaciers in preparation for the high pass crossing.

Day 10

Amphu Lapcha Base Camp – Amphu Lapcha Pass (5,650 m) – Chhukung (4,730 m, 6–7 hours)

Start early to cross the Amphu Lapcha Pass, surrounded by glaciers and dramatic ridges. Descend to Chhukung, enjoying panoramic Himalayan views along the way. Overnight in tents.

Day 11

Rest Day at Chhukung

Take a rest day for acclimatization. Optional hikes to nearby ridges or Chhukung Ri (5,500 m) provide excellent photo opportunities and preparation for Island Peak.

Day 12

Chhukung – Island Peak Base Camp (5,200 m, 3 hours)

Hike to Island Peak Base Camp. Receive a 2-hour training session from your climbing guide on crampons, belay ropes, and safety procedures. Overnight at base camp.

Day 13

Summit Island Peak (6,189 m)

Return to Chhukung. Early morning summit attempt of Island Peak. Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. Descend to Chhukung; if late or the weather is bad, spend the night at base camp.

Day 14

Chhukung – Tyangboche (3,860 m, 5 hours)

Descend through Imja Valley to Tyangboche, visiting the famous monastery. Overnight in a lodge with beautiful mountain views.

Day 15

Tyangboche – Namche Bazaar (3,440 m, 6–7 hours)

Trek through pine forests and charming Sherpa villages. Spend the night in Namche Bazaar, the cultural hub of the Khumbu region.

Day 16

Namche Bazaar – Lukla (2,860 m, 7–8 hours)

Descend along the Dudh Koshi River back to Lukla. Enjoy your final night in a teahouse, reflecting on the trek.

Day 17

Lukla – Kathmandu (Flight, 35 minutes)

Early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and conclude your trek.