Summit Challenge

Summit Challenge Itinerary:

• Day 1

  Your trip begins today in Kathmandu, Nepal.  After clearing immigration and customs, you are met by our Sherpa staff and transferred to the hotel.  The afternoon is left open to rest and explore.  Perhaps, take a walking tour with your guide and explore the streets of bustling Kathmandu.  There will be an evening orientation with the group to review your trip’s itinerary.  Meals on your own.

• Day 2

  Enjoy a half-day guided tour of the ancient cities of Kathmandu and Patan.  Nepal is a country rich in religious diversity.  Today you visit various Buddhist and Hindu shrines and temples: Swayambunath, the Monkey Temple, Buddhanath Stupa and Jawalakel, a Tibetan refugee carpet center.  The rest of the day is our own to explore and to re-pack your bags for tomorrow’s trek departure.  Breakfast included.

• Day 3

  Early morning (7 a.m.) we transfer to the airport to catch our scenic flight to Lukla (9,200'), the entrance into the Solu Khumbu.  While having lunch, the supplies and our gear are loaded onto yaks.  The trek begins with a 4-hour hike down through terraced hillsides and along stone fences to the Dudh Kosi River (8,600’), across a hanging bridge, to our first camp in the near Phakdhing.  Take notice of the huge boulder inscribed with the Buddhist prayer “Om mani padme hum” ... “O lotus-seated god the celestial jewel”.  Throughout the trek you’ll encounter the Sherpa people reciting this mantra over and over again – a virtuous deed believed to influence the next life.  Trek 3-4 hours; Elevation loss 600’.  All meals included Days 3-16.

• Day 4

  The dawn’s air is crisp as the sun won't reach the bottom of the Dudh Kosi Valley until mid-morning.  Today, the trail wanders through rolling terrain, past traditional homes, plowed fields and pine and cedar forests while slowly ascending to the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park.  Far up the valley, the snowy peak of Thamserku (21,856’) is a tease of what’s to come.  An early lunch provides fuel for the steep 1,800’ hike to the village of Namche Bazaar (11,300’).  Namche is the largest Sherpa village and has been the primary staging area for major Himalayan expeditions. It is a major establishment because of the abundant source of fresh water and its lively bazaar.  REI has a long history here and has cultivated many Sherpa friends. We are likely to have the opportunity for a Sherpa home-stay this evening.  Trekking: 6 hours; Elevation: gain 2700’.

• Day 5

  Temple horns and yak bells awaken us to a sunrise surrounded by snowy white mountains over 20,000’ high!  You’ll appreciate this layover day – it’s planned for relaxation and acclimatization.  Peaks include Kwangde (20,930'), Thamserku (21,856'), and Kangtega (22,240').  A day hike to the Everest View Hotel (12,400') not only helps us with acclimatization, but provides stunning views of Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam (22,943’) and Mount Everest (29,035’).  Overnight in Namche.  Trek 4-5 hours.

• Day 6

  Leaving Namche Bazaar, our trek steps off the standard Base Camp trail for the next two days.  We ascend up past the Syangboche airstrip (12,200) and down into the small hidden valley of Khumjung.  Khumjung has the most important school and the only hospital in the Khumbu region … both were built by Sir Edmund Hillary.  Crossing the valley we ascend through a rhododendron forest, traversing the beautiful southern slope of Khumbila, the holy mountain of the Sherpas.  We pass over Mong La pass (12, 992’) to our camp near Phortse Tenga in mid-afternoon.  The setting is absolutely spectacular with the distinctive peak of Ama Dablam looming in the near background.  Watch for impeyan pheasants, tahr mountain goats and possibly musk deer when walking through the forests.  Trekking: 6 hours; Elevation: loss 400’, gain 2,100’.

• Day 7

  Today is another acclimatization day in that we end the day sleeping at the same altitude as last night.  Descend rapidly 800’ to cross over the roaring river fed by the glaciers of the 10th highest peak in the world, Cho Oyo.  We pass through the village of Phortse and enjoy a fairly gentle ascent to Pangboche Monastery (13,030’), the oldest monastery in the Everest region.  Sitting among the 400 year old juniper trees, gaze across the valley at the magnificent mountain scenery.  Trekking: 6-7 hours hike; Elevation: loss and gain 800’.

• Day 8

  This is a long day with the toughest section coming right at the end as we ascend 1100’ to Dingboche (14,400’). In the afternoon, our trail swings off the main track to the east and climbs slowly up to the windswept potato fields of Dingboche village, the highest permanent Sherpa settlement in the region.  Ama Dablam’s razor edges are particularly dramatic here.  Note:  We take the lower trail to Pheriche (13,900’) if health or weather makes this a more prudent choice.  Trekking: 5-6 hours; Elevation:  gain 1700’.

• Day 9

  Today is called a “rest day”, but with so many day hikes possible, you may find it tough to rest.  One favorite option is to hike to Nangkha Jhong Ri, a round trip of 5 hours.   This day allows for the body to “catch up”, to hike high but sleep at this same altitude again.  It’s a great day for sleeping in, washing, photography, writing in that journal, and simply absorbing the awesome scenery.  Trekking: optional.

• Day 10

  Ascend gently through alpine scrub and yak pastures to Loboche (16,269’).  The scenery becomes more and more stunning, with views of Tawoche (21,463’), Cholotse (21,128’), Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse’, Lhotse Shar’ and a host of “lesser” peaks.  We pass fewer and fewer trekkers the further into the interior we go. As has been true throughout the trek, it is imperative to be drinking lots of water and staying well hydrated at this altitude.  Trekking: 5 hours; Elevation: gain 2100’.

• Day 11

  Enjoy a relaxing morning before a 3-hour trek up to Gorek Shep (17,100’).  This tiny “village” consists of a couple of small stone huts residing in the shadow of Kala Patar Ri (18,190’).  We arrive about 1 p.m., set camp, have lunch and load up our packs with warm clothes and a flashlight (check your batteries!).  Head out for the summit of Kala Patar around 3 p.m. to arrive at the summit by 5:00p.m.  We don our warm clothes and get ready for the best light show on earth (weather permitting)… a sunset that defies description!  Soak up the alpine glow lighting the tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest (29,035’). Descend in the dark to dinner.  Trekking:  5-6 hours; Elevation gain to camp is 900’.

• Day 12

  Layover day.  Sherpas and yaks move camp on an easy trek back down to Loboche.  You may choose to hike 3-4 hours to the official Mt. Everest Base Camp or join the Sherpas going back down the trail.  This is really a spare day to allow for weather, serendipity, acclimatization and further exploration.  Trekking to Loboche: 2 hours; Trekking to Everest Base Camp-Loboche: 8 hours.

• Day 13

  A great hike down to Dingboche on a remote trail with beautiful scenery.  As we descend, breathing becomes easier as the air includes more oxygen.  Camp in the potato fields under Ama Dablam.  It’s possible to go scrambling up nearby high points for a close view of the sheer, 7000’ rock walls of Ama Dablam.  Trekking: 4-5 hours.

• Day 14

  Today we move camp to the tiny village of Chukhung (15,517'), the most interior village along the Imja Khola.  After a short morning hike, the remainder of the day is used for rest and exploration.  Imja Tse Himal (20,308’) can be seen nearby. It’s surrounded by many other impressive peaks, including the fourth highest in the world... Lhotse.  The black spire of Lhotse (27,503') is so steep that snow won’t stick to it!  Trekking:  3 hours

• Day 15

  Yak trails lead us back up to the 16,500' base camp of Imja Tse (Island Peak).  Here we sort gear and divide loads for our climb tomorrow morning.  The afternoon is primarily a time to rest and organize for the climb. Trekking:  4-5 hours

• Day 16

  Up very early this morning (about 3:00am) for hot tea and quick breakfast, before we begin a slow ascent up to the summit of Imja Tse Himal. (Those not participating in the climb may stay in camp today to rest and explore.)  With ropes, crampons, ice axes, snow anchors, and the leadership of our high altitude climbing Sherpas, we climb through the ice falls, past crevasses and along a snowy ridgeline.  The summit of the mountain is at 20,308'.  At the top all the Himalayas open up to you - take photos and a deep celebratory breath. Descend peak via base camp, pack up group and personal gear. Return to base camp for the evening. Climbing:  10-12 hours
  
  Note about climbing:  Our route up the hidden southeast side of Imja Tse is not extremely technical.  However, ice-axe skills and previous climbing experience are required.  These skills are not taught on this trip.  In good weather, it is a fairly straightforward climb.  The route goes through an ice-fall and around large, yawning crevasses.  If weather conditions and time allow, the peak is attempted.  However, if there are recent deep snows, high winds and/or whiteout conditions, the mountain will not be climbed.  Our experienced Sherpa climbers make the final decision.

• Day 17

  Today we head down to Pangboche.  After two weeks at higher elevations, we again travel through a forest of pine and rhododendron trees.  The air seems to be thick and rich and the weather at 12,700' elevation can seem absolutely balmy!  Trekking:  6+ hours

• Day 18

  After leaving camp this morning we cross over to the south bank of the Imja Khola and up to the Tengboche Monastery. This impressive gompa is the main temple for Tibetan Buddhism in the Khumbu region.It’s easy to imagine why this spot was chosen for the monastery…the setting is simply spectacular.   Watch for musk deer - they are often seen here in the morning or evening.  The moderate trail returns the team to Namche Bazaar.  Tonight we have a farewell party for the trek crew in Sherpas' homes.  Trekking:  6+ hours

• Day 19

  A full day's walk, down along the Duhd Kosi river and back to Phakdhing for the evening.  Today is an easy day of hiking.  Trekking:  5 hours.

• Day 20

  After a relaxing morning, we head back out of the river gorge and up to Lukla for our last evening in the Khumbu. Trekking: 3 hours.

• Day 21

  Early morning preparation and return flight to Kathmandu. We are met by the REI ground staff and conveyed to our hotel in town.  Rest, shower, clean up and catch up!  The rest of the day is your own.  Breakfast included.
  
  Note about flights:  Our trips run during the best weather conditions of the year and there is an extra day at the end of the trek to allow for poor weather, sightseeing and shopping.  Flights to and from Lukla are not always dependable.  Weather conditions may cause flight delays or cancellations or even necessitate chartering a rescue helicopter for evacuation.  Costs of any evacuation are in addition to any previously paid air/land costs and are billed to trip members upon return to their home; thus we highly recommend the purchase of trip insurance.

• Day 22

  This day is your own.  Kathmandu Valley is a fascinating and exotic city and there is much yet to see and explore.  We are happy to provide some advice.  A farewell dinner is planned to cap off what has been a journey of a lifetime!  Breakfast and Dinner are included.

• Day 23

  We transfer to the airport for homeward bound flights.

Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.

If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted on the trip itinerary.  If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign you a roommate if one is available.  If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee which is half of the full single supplement.  Please be advised that there are a limited number of single rooms available.

National Park fees, 4 nights hotel in Kathmandu, meals as noted on the itinerary, Sherpa guides and porters, cooks and commissary crew, tents, foam sleeping pads, community cooking gear, baggage portage, and airport transfers.

Air transportation to/from Nepal, Bangkok hotel costs (if routing requires an overnight), flights within Nepal (mandatory $250 internal flight), meals not noted in the itinerary, visas, any necessary emergency evacuation flight costs, optional tips to guides and staff, airport taxes, cost of obtaining a passport or medical immunizations, insurance, and items of a personal nature such as liquor or laundry fees.

This trip is rated Strenuous [5]. ‘The Summit Challenge’ is one of the most demanding of all REI Adventure’s tours.  Minimum age is 18.  Trekking in Nepal is for active people in good health who enjoy vigorous hiking. Nepal has an “up and down” topography, there is very little level walking. We expect participants to be strong, experienced hikers in excellent physical condition.  Most gear and supplies will be carried by yaks / pack animals, leaving members free to carry only a daypack.  Each person should be equipped with a "spirit of adventure" and have prior experience with backcountry camping and willingness to undergo the potential hardships of outdoor living for more than two weeks.  A serious physical conditioning program should be undertaken several months in advance to get into shape.  Hiking hills for the legs, swimming to increase lung capacity and circulation, jogging and bicycling for overall fitness...these are excellent for building the strength necessary for the trek.  The best training is extensive hiking up and down hills, putting in 10 mile hikes on weekends prior to the trip. Consult with your physician.

Participation on the climb (Imja Tse Himal, Island Peak) is not a requirement of this great trek, non climbers are always welcome.  If you wish to climb, then ice axe experience and performing self-arrest techniques are a requirement for participation during the two-day climb.  There is no opportunity to teach or learn these basic skills during the trek prior to the climb.  This is not a training course.  This is a fun skill that can be mastered here in the States before departure.  Many past members have prepared for this trek by first completing either the Mt. Shasta or Mt. Rainier climbing seminars.  You can find Mt. Shasta seminars on our website. No other technical climbing abilities are required.  We do not require high altitude experience for the trip, for the simple fact that to get it -- you would need to have been on this trip.

We have successfully summited Imja Tse Himal nearly every year we have attempted it, in part due to fortunate weather conditions and by taking the time to acclimatize prior to our ascent.  But, this trip can be very tiring and is demanding due to the altitude and the consistent cold.  This is a long trek with a majority of time spent at altitudes above 13,000'.  A physician’s signature is required for participation on this trip.

The fall season is an ideal time for the best mountain views.  The days are typically sunny and clear with moderate temperatures and the evenings are usually quite cold...frosty, to be exact.  Clear, crisp air greets the trekker each morning and evening.  Trekking to the very high Mt. Everest Base Camp and the Island Peak region (Imja Tse Himal ) can include 0° temperatures at night and a 50% chance of some snow anytime above the 13,000’ level.  During the day, above 15,000 feet, do not anticipate temperatures above 35°.  Again, since your body is taking in less than half its normal supply of oxygen, 32° will feel colder than we are accustomed to at home. 

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased within 21 days of your initial trip deposit, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

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