Lhotse
In Nepali: ल्होत्से
Lhotse means 'south peak' in Tibetan, and it stands directly south of Everest. At 8,516 m it is the fourth-highest summit on earth and was first climbed by a Swiss team in 1956. Climbers share the Everest route as far as the Lhotse Face.
Its south face, rising above the Chhukung valley, is one of the largest mountain walls in the world. Trekkers see it best from Chhukung Ri and Island Peak base camp.
Where to see it
Lhotse forms the great wall at the head of the Khumbu, joined to Nuptse in a ridge over 7,500 m high. The south face is best seen from Chhukung and Island Peak base camp; from Tengboche, Lhotse's summit rises to the right of Everest's. From Kala Patthar you see the Lhotse Face, the steep ice slope climbers ascend on the way to the South Col.
Good to know
The south face was one of the last great problems of Himalayan climbing and has seen very few successful ascents. Trekkers can combine Chhukung Ri (about 5,550 m) with the Everest Base Camp trek for the finest views.
Quick answers
- Where is Lhotse?
- Lhotse is in Solukhumbu district, Koshi Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Lhotse?
- About 8,516 m (27,941 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Lhotse?
- For a 14-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 137,500 (≈ US$1,020) per person on a budget, or NPR 157,500 (≈ US$1,165) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 61,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Lhotse?
- Plan 12 nights there for the trek; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 14 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Lhotse?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 5,000 / US$37 to enter Sagarmatha National Park plus the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipality fee (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Lhotse?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Lhotse?
- October–November; April–May
- How do I get to Lhotse?
- Seen from Dingboche, Chhukung and Kala Patthar. It is about 161 km (straight line) from Kathmandu, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Lhotse called in Nepali?
- ल्होत्से
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