Everest Expedition 8,848.86m (29,032 ft) – South Col Route - 65 Days

The Everest Expedition (8,848.86m / 29,032 ft) via the South Col Route is one of the most remarkable and challenging adventures on Earth. This iconic journey allows mountaineers to stand on the world’s highest peak, experiencing breathtaking beauty and testing human endurance at its limits. Organized by Alpine Club of Himalaya, the expedition offers a full-board 40-day guided climb with a 1:1 climber-to-guide ratio, ensuring the highest level of safety, success, and personalized support.

Mount Everest, locally known as Sagarmatha in Nepal and Chomolungma in Tibet, stands as the ultimate symbol of adventure and perseverance. The South Col route, first conquered by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa in 1953, remains the most popular and technically feasible route for climbers today. The expedition begins with a flight to Lukla, followed by a scenic trek through the Khumbu Valley — home to the Sherpa people and rich Buddhist culture. As you pass through famous villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, the trail offers awe-inspiring views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.

Upon reaching Everest Base Camp (5,200m), climbers spend several weeks in preparation, acclimatization, and rotation climbs through multiple camps established strategically along the route. The journey from Base Camp to the summit involves crossing the Khumbu Icefall, ascending the Lhotse Face, and reaching the South Col (8,000m) before making the final summit push. The effort is immense, but the reward — standing atop the highest point on Earth — is beyond words.

The Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures that every aspect of this demanding climb is professionally managed. From experienced Sherpa guides and high-quality equipment to comprehensive medical and logistical support, the expedition is designed to provide maximum comfort, safety, and a genuine Himalayan climbing experience.

Everest Expedition Camp Details

Base Camp – 17,060 ft / 5,200 m

Everest Base Camp is your temporary home for up to 45 days during the expedition. Located at 5,200 meters above sea level, the base camp sits on shifting glacial terrain that constantly changes due to the movement and melting of ice. Life at Base Camp is both demanding and inspiring, surrounded by majestic peaks like Pumori, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Icefall. The area resembles a bustling village, filled with colorful tents, climbers, and support staff from around the world. Mornings are usually bright and warm, while afternoons can bring sudden snow showers. The Alpine Club of Himalaya provides comfortable tents, hygienic meals, and all necessary facilities to help climbers rest and prepare for higher altitudes.

Camp I – 19,357 ft / 5,900 m

Reaching Camp I is one of the most technically demanding sections of the South Col route. Climbers must navigate the notorious Khumbu Icefall, a constantly moving maze of massive ice blocks, deep crevasses, and towering seracs. The route is equipped with fixed ropes and ladders to ensure safety. Camp I serves as the first major acclimatization stop, where climbers spend two nights to adjust to the high altitude. The Alpine Club of Himalaya team ensures secure camp setup and efficient communication with Base Camp, preparing climbers for the next ascent toward Camp II.

Camp II – 20,998 ft / 6,400 m

Camp II is located at the base of the Lhotse Face, on a lateral moraine of the Western Cwm. This camp is considered the main operational hub above Base Camp, offering relative safety and stability. Most teams, including Alpine Club of Himalaya, establish a fully equipped setup here with individual sleeping tents, kitchen facilities, and dining tents. The area provides magnificent views of Lhotse and surrounding peaks. Camp II plays a vital role in the acclimatization process, as climbers spend extended periods here before progressing to higher camps. It also acts as the command center for organizing loads, oxygen supplies, and weather updates.

Camp III – 23,294 ft / 7,100 m

Situated on the steep Lhotse Face, Camp III is reached by ascending icy slopes that can range from 30 to 45 degrees. The climb requires technical precision and physical endurance, as the air becomes significantly thinner and most climbers have not yet begun using supplemental oxygen. The Alpine Club of Himalaya team ensures that fixed ropes are properly installed and that every climber is carefully monitored for altitude-related symptoms. Spending one or two nights here helps the body prepare for the extreme conditions ahead. From Camp III, climbers begin to experience the true intensity of high-altitude mountaineering.

South Col (Camp IV) – 26,300 ft / 8,000 m

The South Col serves as the final camp before the summit push. Located on a wind-swept plateau between Everest and Lhotse, it is often described as a lifeless landscape of rock and ice, resembling the surface of the moon. This is where climbers enter the Death Zone, an altitude where the human body cannot acclimatize for long. The route to Camp IV passes two significant rock formations — the Yellow Band and the Geneva Spur, both secured with fixed ropes. At the South Col, climbers rest, check their gear, and prepare mentally and physically for the ultimate ascent. The Alpine Club of Himalaya guides ensure all safety checks are completed before moving toward the summit.

Summit – 29,032 ft / 8,848.86 m

The final ascent from the South Col to the summit typically takes between 9 to 13 hours. The climb passes several iconic landmarks — the Balcony, South Summit, and the Hillary Step — before reaching the true summit of Everest. The final ridge offers a moderate snow slope, but the combination of altitude, exhaustion, and weather makes it extremely demanding. Reaching the summit of Everest is an indescribable achievement — a moment of triumph and emotion after weeks of perseverance and dedication. Climbers are rewarded with panoramic views that stretch across the Himalayas into Tibet and Nepal. The Alpine Club of Himalaya team ensures a safe ascent and descent, prioritizing every climber’s well-being.

Facts of the Trip

·       Highest Access: 8,848.86m (29,032 ft)

·       Duration: 65 Days (40 Days Full-Board Climb)

·       Coordinates: 27°59'17" N / 86°55'31" E

·       Country: Nepal

·       Departure From: Kathmandu Airport

·       Accommodation: 3-star to 5-star hotels in Kathmandu (as per request)

·       Transportation: Private vehicles and domestic flights

·       Major Activity: Trekking and Mountaineering

·       Cultural Highlights: Sherpa and Tamang communities

·       Climbing Route: South-East Ridge (Normal Route)

·       First Ascent: May 29, 1953 – Edmund Hillary & Tenzing Norgay Sherpa

·       Group Size: 8–10 climbers per group

·       Location: Nepal/Tibet Border

·       Airport: Kathmandu International Airport

·       Grade: Challenging

·       Meals: Bed & Breakfast in Kathmandu; Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during trek and climb

·       Best Season: Spring (April–May)

·       Included Activities: Trekking and Mountaineering

·       Mode of Travel: Teahouse and Camping

·       Himalayan Sights: Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu

Best Time for the Everest Expedition

Spring Season (April to May)

The spring season is universally recognized as the best time for the Everest Expedition. During these months, the weather conditions are relatively stable, and the temperatures are favorable for climbing. The jet stream moves away from the summit, reducing high winds and making the upper slopes safer. The Khumbu Icefall and other glacier sections also remain more stable, minimizing the risk of crevasses and ice movement. Clear skies provide breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, and the atmosphere at Base Camp becomes lively with numerous international climbing teams. The Alpine Club of Himalaya conducts its main Everest expeditions during this season, offering the best chance of summit success and safety.

Autumn Season (Late September to November)

The autumn season is another possible time for the Everest Expedition, though it is less common than spring. After the monsoon, the air becomes clean and visibility excellent, offering spectacular mountain views. However, colder temperatures and stronger winds at higher altitudes make climbing more challenging. Fewer teams attempt Everest in autumn, which means less crowding on the route and a quieter climbing experience. For highly experienced climbers seeking solitude and a tougher challenge, the Alpine Club of Himalaya can organize customized autumn expeditions with expert logistical support and safety measures in place.

Difficulty Level

The Everest Expedition is rated as “Challenging” and is suitable only for experienced climbers with prior high-altitude mountaineering experience. Standing at 8,848.86 meters, Everest demands a high level of physical fitness, technical climbing skills, and mental endurance. The route via the South Col involves crossing dangerous sections such as the Khumbu Icefall, the Lhotse Face, and the Hillary Step, each presenting unique challenges like deep crevasses, vertical ice walls, and extreme altitude.

Climbers face long hours of climbing each day in freezing conditions while carrying loads and using supplemental oxygen above 7,000 meters. The air pressure at the summit is only one-third that of sea level, making every step a struggle. Proper acclimatization, disciplined pacing, and guidance from experienced Sherpas are essential for a safe ascent. With expert support from the Alpine Club of Himalaya, determined climbers can successfully overcome the immense physical and psychological challenges of Everest.

Altitude Sickness and Preparations

Altitude sickness is one of the most common and serious challenges during the Everest Expedition. It occurs due to reduced oxygen levels at high elevations, which can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. Severe forms, like High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

To minimize these risks, the Alpine Club of Himalaya follows a well-structured acclimatization schedule that includes gradual ascents and rest days. Climbers spend several weeks moving between camps to allow their bodies to adapt to the thin air. Supplemental oxygen and medications such as Diamox are used as preventive measures. The guiding team constantly monitors climbers’ health using pulse oximeters and regular medical check-ups.

Pre-expedition preparation is equally important. Climbers should train at altitude whenever possible and maintain excellent physical conditioning. Staying hydrated, eating nutritious meals, and getting proper rest also help prevent altitude-related problems. The Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures that all participants receive detailed pre-climb briefings on recognizing and managing altitude sickness, prioritizing safety at every stage of the ascent.

Physical Fitness and Requirements

Climbing Mount Everest (8,848.86m) demands exceptional physical fitness, endurance, and mental determination. The expedition involves trekking and climbing at extremely high altitudes, where oxygen levels are significantly reduced, making every step challenging. Therefore, climbers must be in top physical condition and possess prior experience in high-altitude mountaineering.

Participants should have successfully climbed at least one 6,000m or 7,000m peak before attempting Everest. Familiarity with the use of climbing gear such as crampons, ice axes, fixed ropes, ascenders, and harnesses is essential. A strong cardiovascular system, good muscular strength, and endurance training are crucial to withstand long climbing days, freezing temperatures, and the physical stress caused by altitude.

The Alpine Club of Himalaya recommends that climbers undergo a thorough medical check-up before joining the expedition to ensure they are free from heart, lung, or blood pressure issues. Mental resilience is equally important, as the journey demands patience, focus, and the ability to handle extreme environments and unexpected challenges.

Preparations and Training

Proper preparation and structured training are key factors in achieving success on the Everest Expedition. The Alpine Club of Himalaya advises climbers to begin their training at least 6 to 12 months before the expedition. Training should include a combination of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, endurance hikes, and technical climbing practice.

• Cardiovascular Training: Activities like running, cycling, swimming, and stair climbing help improve lung capacity and stamina. Aim for 4–6 sessions per week, each lasting 45–60 minutes.
• Strength and Endurance: Focus on building leg and core muscles through squats, lunges, step-ups, planks, and deadlifts. Carrying a backpack during training helps simulate real trekking conditions.
• Altitude Acclimatization: If possible, train or trek at high altitudes to get used to reduced oxygen levels. Climbing peaks above 5,000m prior to Everest helps greatly with adaptation.
• Technical Skills: Practice climbing with fixed ropes, ice axes, and crampons on snow or ice terrain. A mountaineering course or a guided expedition to smaller Himalayan peaks can enhance skills and confidence.
• Mental Preparation: Mental toughness plays a crucial role in high-altitude climbing. Meditation, visualization, and stress management techniques can help climbers remain calm and focused during difficult stages.

The Alpine Club of Himalaya provides detailed pre-expedition guidance, gear checklists, and personalized advice to ensure every participant is fully prepared for the challenge. With the right training, preparation, and mindset, climbers can significantly increase their chances of a safe and successful ascent to the top of the world.

Accommodations

During the Everest Expedition, accommodations are arranged to provide maximum comfort and safety at every stage of the journey. In Kathmandu, climbers stay in well-selected three to five-star hotels according to their preference, offering modern amenities and a relaxing environment to prepare before the expedition and recover afterward.

During the trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, accommodation is provided in teahouses or lodges, run by local Sherpa families. These lodges are clean, cozy, and offer warm hospitality, allowing climbers to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the Khumbu region. Rooms are typically twin-shared with basic facilities.

At Everest Base Camp and higher camps, accommodation shifts to high-quality expedition tents arranged by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. Base Camp includes individual sleeping tents, a kitchen tent, a dining tent, and a communication tent. Higher up the mountain, lightweight and weather-resistant tents are used at each camp for maximum safety and warmth. Every camp is well-managed by experienced Sherpa staff to ensure a comfortable and organized stay in extreme conditions.

Meals

Meals during the expedition are carefully planned to maintain high energy levels and proper nutrition. In Kathmandu, a Bed and Breakfast (B/B) plan is provided, allowing climbers to enjoy a variety of local and international cuisines at their hotel or nearby restaurants.

During the trekking and climbing phases, a Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) meal plan is provided. While trekking, meals are served in teahouses, offering a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and continental dishes such as Dal Bhat, soups, noodles, rice, pasta, vegetables, and eggs.

At Base Camp and higher camps, meals are prepared by professional expedition cooks from the Alpine Club of Himalaya. The kitchen staff ensures hygienic and balanced meals that include soups, rice, noodles, bread, meats, vegetables, energy bars, and hot drinks. At higher camps, lightweight and high-calorie foods are provided to sustain energy in extreme conditions. Climbers also have access to hot tea, coffee, and soups to stay hydrated and warm throughout the expedition.

Drinking Water

Clean and safe drinking water is a top priority during the Everest Expedition. While in Kathmandu, bottled mineral water is readily available. During the trekking phase, boiled and filtered water is provided in teahouses. The Alpine Club of Himalaya team also encourages climbers to carry personal water purification tablets or filters for extra safety.

At Everest Base Camp and above, all water used for drinking, cooking, and washing is either boiled or treated with purification tablets to ensure it is safe for consumption. Staying hydrated at high altitude is crucial for proper acclimatization and maintaining energy, so climbers are advised to drink plenty of fluids daily. Hot drinks such as tea, soup, and warm water are frequently served to prevent dehydration and altitude-related issues.

With careful attention to accommodation, meals, and water hygiene, the Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures a comfortable and healthy environment for climbers throughout the entire expedition.

Comprehensive Guiding Services

The Everest Expedition with the Alpine Club of Himalaya offers one of the most complete and professional guiding services in the Himalayas. Every climber benefits from a 1:1 climber-to-guide ratio, ensuring personalized guidance, attention, and safety throughout the journey. The expedition is led by highly experienced IFMGA/UIAGM-certified mountain guides and veteran Sherpa climbers who have successfully summited Everest and other 8,000m peaks multiple times.

Each guide is trained in high-altitude rescue, first aid, oxygen management, and technical climbing, ensuring that climbers receive expert supervision at every stage. The Sherpa team handles all logistics, including rope fixing, camp setup, and load carrying between camps. The Alpine Club of Himalaya also assigns a dedicated base camp manager and a communication officer to coordinate movement, monitor weather updates, and maintain safety protocols.

Climbers are supported with high-quality gear, oxygen systems, and medical facilities, including a comprehensive first-aid kit, pulse oximeters, and emergency oxygen supplies. Regular briefings and route planning meetings help participants stay informed and mentally prepared. This complete support system ensures that climbers can focus on the climb while the guiding team takes care of every technical and logistical detail, maximizing the chances of a safe and successful summit.

Weather

The weather on Mount Everest is one of the most critical factors determining the success and safety of an expedition. Conditions can change rapidly, ranging from calm, sunny mornings to sudden snowstorms or strong winds in the afternoon. The Alpine Club of Himalaya schedules expeditions during the spring season (April to May) when the climate is most stable.

At lower altitudes, daytime temperatures are moderate, with clear skies and excellent visibility. However, as climbers ascend above 6,000 meters, temperatures can drop dramatically, often falling below -20°C to -30°C at night. Above 8,000 meters — the “Death Zone” — the thin air, low oxygen, and fierce winds create extremely harsh conditions.

The right timing and proper acclimatization are crucial for managing Everest’s unpredictable weather. Even with ideal planning, climbers must be mentally and physically prepared for sudden weather changes at any altitude.

Weather Challenges

Weather poses some of the biggest challenges during the Everest Expedition. The upper slopes are often battered by jet stream winds exceeding 100 km/h, which can make climbing impossible and dangerous. Heavy snowfall can increase avalanche risks, especially on the Khumbu Icefall and the Lhotse Face, while extreme cold can cause frostbite and hypothermia.

Low visibility due to clouds or snow can make navigation difficult, and unpredictable storms can delay summit pushes for several days. Climbers must remain flexible, patient, and ready to adjust their schedule according to changing conditions. The Alpine Club of Himalaya emphasizes safety above all else and ensures that summit attempts are made only when the weather window is stable and favorable.

Weather Forecast

Accurate and timely weather forecasting is essential for a safe and successful Everest climb. The Alpine Club of Himalaya relies on real-time weather updates from professional meteorological services and satellite communication systems. Forecasts are received daily at Base Camp and include vital information such as wind speeds, temperature trends, snowfall predictions, and jet stream positions.

Based on these updates, the expedition leader and base camp manager plan rotations, rest days, and the crucial summit push. The team typically targets the short summit window — a few days in May when winds calm down and visibility improves — offering the best chance for a safe ascent. Constant monitoring and communication ensure that climbers make informed decisions and minimize exposure to hazardous conditions.

With expert forecasting, experienced decision-making, and flexible scheduling, the Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures that every climber attempts the summit during the safest and most favorable conditions possible.

General Tips for Tracking Weather

l  Local Weather Services: Use reliable local weather services or apps to get accurate and up-to-date forecasts for the Churen Himal region.

l  Satellite Imagery: Check satellite images for real-time weather patterns that can affect visibility and conditions in the mountains.

l  Consult Guides: Rely on your expedition guides for insights and updates on weather conditions, as they often have the latest information on the ground.

Environment

The Everest Expedition takes climbers through one of the most breathtaking and fragile environments on Earth — the heart of the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is rich in biodiversity, with landscapes that range from lush pine and rhododendron forests at lower altitudes to rugged glacial terrain above 5,000 meters. The expedition area is home to rare wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan thar, snow leopards, and various bird species, along with the cultural presence of the Sherpa community.

The Alpine Club of Himalaya is fully committed to protecting this pristine environment through responsible tourism practices. The team strictly follows the “Leave No Trace” principles, ensuring that all waste is properly managed and brought back from the mountain. Eco-friendly methods are applied during the expedition — including the use of reusable containers, biodegradable materials, and minimal plastic usage. By maintaining environmental integrity, climbers not only enjoy the natural beauty of Everest but also contribute to preserving it for future generations.

Safety and Security

Safety and security are the top priorities of the Alpine Club of Himalaya throughout the Everest Expedition. Every detail of the climb — from route planning to daily operations — is designed to minimize risks and ensure the well-being of climbers and crew. The team uses high-quality climbing gear, ropes, and tents suitable for extreme weather conditions. Each expedition is equipped with emergency communication systems, including satellite phones and radios, to maintain constant contact between camps.

Professional Sherpa guides and climbing leaders are trained in high-altitude rescue techniques and first aid. Oxygen cylinders, masks, regulators, and medical kits are available at all camps for emergencies. The team also coordinates with helicopter evacuation services in case of serious medical situations.

Strict safety protocols are followed during every climb, including fixed rope checks, weather monitoring, and pre-summit safety briefings. The Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures that no climber takes unnecessary risks — summit attempts are made only under stable weather and health conditions. This commitment to safety, combined with years of experience and strong teamwork, provides every climber with a secure and professionally managed expedition experience on the world’s highest mountain.

Facilities and Camp Setup

·        Base Camp (5,200m / 17,060 ft)
At Everest Base Camp, climbers stay in individual expedition tents that provide insulation and warmth against cold temperatures. Each tent is equipped with high-quality sleeping bags, insulated mats, and secure storage for personal belongings. The camp includes dining tents for meals, a kitchen tent managed by professional cooks, a communication tent for satellite phone and weather updates, and sanitation facilities maintained to high standards to ensure hygiene. This well-structured setup allows climbers to rest and prepare for higher altitudes comfortably.

·        Camp I (5,900m / 19,357 ft)
Camp I is positioned at the top of the Khumbu Icefall, a technically challenging section. The camp uses lightweight yet durable tents designed to withstand extreme winds and snow. Fixed ropes, ladders, and technical climbing aids are installed around the camp for safety. Climbers spend time here for acclimatization, and the Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures tents and facilities are properly organized and secure.

·        Camp II (6,400m / 20,998 ft)
Located on a lateral moraine of the Western Cwm, Camp II serves as the main operational hub above Base Camp. It includes individual sleeping tents, kitchen tents, and dining areas. The camp provides a relatively safe environment for extended stays, where climbers acclimatize, rest, and prepare for higher rotations. Oxygen cylinders and medical kits are stocked to support climbers during their stay.

·        Camp III (7,100m / 23,294 ft)
Camp III is situated on the Lhotse Face, a steep icy slope. Tents here are strong, wind-resistant, and insulated to endure sub-zero temperatures. Fixed ropes and ladders assist climbers in navigating the surrounding ice walls safely. Camp III is mainly used for acclimatization before making the summit push, and Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures it is organized and equipped with emergency supplies.

·        Camp IV / South Col (8,000m / 26,300 ft)
The South Col is the final camp before the summit, located on a high-altitude plateau. Lightweight and durable tents provide shelter against extreme winds and cold. Camp IV is equipped with oxygen supplies, fixed ropes, ladders, and emergency medical kits, ensuring climbers have everything needed for the final summit attempt. The Alpine Club of Himalaya maintains the camp to high standards of organization, safety, and cleanliness, allowing climbers to focus entirely on the climb.

This structured camp setup, combined with professional management, ensures climbers can acclimatize properly, stay safe, and maintain energy levels during the challenging ascent to Everest’s summit.

Acclimatization

Proper acclimatization is critical for success on Everest and to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Climbers spend several weeks moving between high-altitude camps, gradually increasing elevation to allow their bodies to adjust to low oxygen levels. Typical acclimatization rotations include climbing from Base Camp to Camp I, returning to Base Camp, then moving progressively to Camp II, Camp III, and the South Col before attempting the summit.

During this process, climbers monitor vital signs such as oxygen saturation and heart rate, take rest days, and drink plenty of fluids. The Alpine Club of Himalaya provides expert guidance, ensuring that climbers follow a safe and effective acclimatization schedule, maximizing their chances of reaching the summit while minimizing health risks.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all Everest climbers. Insurance should cover high-altitude mountaineering, emergency evacuation, helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and trip cancellation. The Alpine Club of Himalaya strongly recommends climbers obtain insurance policies that specifically include coverage for expeditions above 8,000 meters, as standard travel insurance often does not cover extreme-altitude climbing. Proper insurance provides peace of mind, knowing that climbers have access to immediate medical support or evacuation in case of emergencies.

Passport and Visa

All climbers must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond their intended return date. For the Everest Expedition in Nepal, a Nepalese tourist visa is required, which can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport or in advance from a Nepalese embassy. Visa durations can range from 15 days to 90 days depending on the expedition schedule.

Additionally, climbers need special permits for Mount Everest, including the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Everest climbing permit, issued by the Government of Nepal. The Alpine Club of Himalaya assists with all permit arrangements, ensuring that all documentation is processed efficiently and accurately, allowing climbers to focus fully on the expedition.

Guides and Porters

The Everest Expedition is supported by highly skilled guides and Sherpa porters to ensure safety, efficiency, and comfort throughout the climb. Each climber benefits from a 1:1 guide-to-climber ratio, with guides trained in high-altitude climbing, technical rope handling, first aid, and emergency response. These guides are experienced mountaineers who have summited Everest and other 8,000-meter peaks multiple times, providing expert supervision at every stage of the expedition.

Sherpa porters assist by carrying essential loads such as tents, oxygen cylinders, food supplies, and climbing equipment between camps. Their knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and technical routes is invaluable, especially when navigating challenging sections like the Khumbu Icefall or the Lhotse Face. The Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures that guides and porters are well-equipped, fairly compensated, and trained to provide professional support, allowing climbers to focus on the ascent with confidence and safety.

WiFi and Electricity

Access to WiFi and electricity during the Everest Expedition is limited but available in specific locations to keep climbers connected and powered. In Kathmandu, hotels provide high-speed WiFi and reliable electricity, allowing climbers to make final preparations, communicate with family, and charge electronic devices.

Along the trekking route to Base Camp, teahouses in villages such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche offer WiFi and electricity for a nominal fee. Charging facilities are usually powered by solar panels or generators and may have limited capacity, so climbers are advised to carry power banks for backup.

At Base Camp and higher camps, electricity is minimal and generally available through solar-powered charging stations or generator-supported communal areas. WiFi connectivity is often slow and may be intermittent due to extreme altitude and weather conditions. The Alpine Club of Himalaya provides guidance on the best ways to stay connected while prioritizing safety and energy conservation in remote high-altitude environments.

Entry Permits and Requirements

Climbing Mount Everest requires several official permits and documents, all of which are strictly regulated by the Government of Nepal. The Alpine Club of Himalaya assists climbers in obtaining all necessary permits to ensure a smooth and hassle-free expedition.

·        Everest Climbing Permit
Every climber must obtain a Sagarmatha National Park Permit, which grants access to the protected Everest region. Additionally, a special Everest climbing permit is required for mountaineering above Base Camp. The cost of these permits varies depending on the season and the climber’s nationality.

·        Trekking Permits
While the main focus is the summit climb, trekkers also need permits such as the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, which ensures that all climbers are registered and accounted for during their trek through the Khumbu region.

·        Passport and Visa
A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is mandatory. Climbers also need a Nepalese tourist visa, which can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport or from a Nepalese embassy prior to travel. Visa durations can range from 15 days to 90 days depending on the expedition schedule.

·        Health and Medical Requirements
Climbers should provide proof of general fitness and undergo a thorough medical check-up to ensure they are capable of handling extreme high-altitude conditions. Vaccinations may also be recommended depending on individual health conditions.

The Alpine Club of Himalaya handles the complete permit process, including applications, approvals, and payments. This ensures that climbers meet all official requirements and can focus entirely on the expedition without administrative delays.

Lukla Flights and Alternatives

The Everest Expedition typically begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, offering a scenic gateway to the Khumbu region. For those who wish to bypass the trekking approach, a helicopter transfer directly to Everest Base Camp is also available, saving time and effort while providing stunning aerial views of the Himalayas.

·        Regular Lukla Flights (Twin-Otter Plane)
Flying from Kathmandu to Lukla in a twin-otter plane takes 30–40 minutes and provides breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks, including Everest. Flights are weather-dependent due to Lukla’s short runway, and the Alpine Club of Himalaya assists with scheduling and coordination to minimize delays.

·        Helicopter Transfer from Kathmandu to Base Camp
Climbers can avoid the multi-day trek by taking a helicopter directly to Base Camp. This option is faster and less physically demanding, offering stunning aerial views of the Khumbu Valley and surrounding mountains.

·        Safety and Convenience
Both options are operated by experienced pilots following strict safety protocols. The Alpine Club of Himalaya manages logistics, ensuring a secure, efficient, and flexible start to the expedition.

Entry Permits and Requirements

Climbing Mount Everest requires several official permits and documents, all of which are strictly regulated by the Government of Nepal. The Alpine Club of Himalaya assists climbers in obtaining all necessary permits to ensure a smooth and hassle-free expedition.

·        Everest Climbing Permit
Every climber must obtain a Sagarmatha National Park Permit, which grants access to the protected Everest region. Additionally, a special Everest climbing permit is required for mountaineering above Base Camp. The cost of these permits varies depending on the season and the climber’s nationality.

·        Trekking Permits
While the main focus is the summit climb, trekkers also need permits such as the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, which ensures that all climbers are registered and accounted for during their trek through the Khumbu region.

·        Passport and Visa
A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is mandatory. Climbers also need a Nepalese tourist visa, which can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport or from a Nepalese embassy prior to travel. Visa durations can range from 15 days to 90 days depending on the expedition schedule.

·        Health and Medical Requirements
Climbers should provide proof of general fitness and undergo a thorough medical check-up to ensure they are capable of handling extreme high-altitude conditions. Vaccinations may also be recommended depending on individual health conditions.

The Alpine Club of Himalaya handles the complete permit process, including applications, approvals, and payments. This ensures that climbers meet all official requirements and can focus entirely on the expedition without administrative delays.

Final Notes

Before beginning your Everest Expedition, it is crucial to ensure that all your personal gear and equipment are tested, comfortable, and fully functional. At extreme altitudes, even minor discomforts or faulty equipment can impact safety, endurance, and overall performance. Make sure that boots are well broken-in, down jackets and insulated layers fit properly, and technical climbing gear such as harnesses, crampons, and ice axes are reliable.

Some essential equipment, such as expedition tents, kitchen tents, oxygen cylinders, Gamow bags, and certain climbing aids, are provided by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. Climbers should confirm with the expedition team in advance which items are included in the package and which personal gear they must supply themselves.

Paying attention to proper packing, layering, and acclimatization strategies is critical for a safe and successful summit attempt. Adequate hydration, nutrition, and physical preparation further enhance performance and reduce the risk of altitude-related issues. Following these precautions ensures that climbers can focus fully on the adventure and enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience of summiting Mount Everest (8,848.86m / 29,032 ft).

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by the Participant

If you decide to cancel your Everest Expedition, you must notify the Alpine Club of Himalaya as early as possible. The following fees apply based on the timing of cancellation:

·        60 days or more before departure: 20% of the total cost.

·        30–59 days before departure: 50% of the total cost.

·        Less than 30 days before departure: Full forfeiture of payment.

Cancellation by the Organizer

In rare circumstances, Alpine Club of Himalaya may cancel the expedition due to unforeseen events such as extreme weather conditions, natural disasters, or safety concerns at high altitudes. In such cases, participants are entitled to:

·        A full refund of all payments made, or

·        The option to reschedule the expedition for a later date, subject to availability.

Force Majeure

Alpine Club of Himalaya is not liable for any additional costs or losses incurred due to force majeure events, including but not limited to:

·        Earthquakes, landslides, avalanches, or other natural disasters.

·        Political unrest, strikes, or sudden changes in government regulations.

·        Health emergencies, pandemics, or other unforeseen safety hazards.

Participants are advised to purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance, including emergency evacuation coverage, to protect themselves against such unexpected situations.