Kala Patthar Summit, Trek Elevation and Weather Guide

Kala Patthar is located on the south range of Mt. Pumori above Gorakshep in the Himalayas in Nepal. Kalapatthar is also referred to as “black rock” in Nepali. Although it’s an optional component of the EBC journey to the Kala Patthar summit, the Kala Patthar Trek is the most well-known for its panoramas of Everest and several other mountains.

The sunrise views of Everest are magnificent from that location. However, there are difficulties, such as altitude sickness. Although the altitude makes hiking difficult, the path from Gorakshep first starts out a little steep before leveling off. A ridge break just before Kala Patthar summit provides a view of Nirekhi Peak, Chumbu, and Khangri. The peak of Kala Patthar, at 5643m, is reached by ascending the last wind-swept stairs.

The Khumbu Glacier, Pumori, Everest Base Camp, Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, and Taboche are all visible in the panorama from the Kala patthar Summit. Similarly, Kala Patthar offers breathtaking views of the summit, Nuptse, and Changtse as well as glimmers of Lhotse’s northern edge summit and peak.

Kala Patthar summit: Itinerary Information and facts

Trail name: Kala Patthar summit

Highest elevation: 5545m/18192ft

Starting/Ending point: Kathmandu (1350m/4429ft) to Kala Patthar elevation

Trekking begins/ends: At Gorekshep-5125m/16814ft (the last lodging place before ascending to Everest Base Camp/Kala Patthar)

Hiking Distance: 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles round trip from and to Gorakshep).

Elevation Gain: 420m/1377ft

Duration: 2-3 Hours

Kala Patthar summit: A Complete Hiking Route Guide

The trek to Kala Patthar summit starts from Gorakshep (5,164 m or 16,942 ft), the original base camp for Mt. Everest. The hike climbs after a brief descent to an old surface of the lake that currently has a small lake and a helipad.

Moreover, a route of steep switchbacks is followed by a slight leveling out as the route makes its way to the mountain’s eastern side. The route becomes difficult once again when it reaches the wind-whipped summit ridge. One must then struggle over stones for five to ten minutes to reach the summit, which is designated by prayer flags.

Near the peak, there is a geocache trackable with the name Kala Patthar Yeti, connected with a trackable code of GS9EBG. Typically, the entire journey to Kala Patthar takes 1.5 to 2 hours. An extra two to three hours (one way) are needed if the effort is undertaken from Lobuche.

Kala Patthar summit: Sunrise or Sunset View

Many hikers prefer to witness the sun rise over the setting sun since the Kala Patthar summit trekking trail is often a sunrise hike. The weather is also not ideal in the afternoon since it will be quite windy and clouds will cover the mountain ranges. Thus, the majority of the agencies plan it for the early-morning trip to see the sunrise. The majority of the time, the weather is favorable in the morning, and the mountains are clearly visible.

On the eighth day of their walk, they typically go from Lobuche to Gorakshep in the morning before continuing on to Everest Base Camp in the late afternoon. On the ninth day, there will be an early ascent to Kala Patthar to see the beautiful sunrise and a return walk to Pheriche in the late afternoon.

Nevertheless, you must leave your lodging at 3 am in the morning. You should turn on your flashlight and proceed in complete darkness up a hill. You will be able to see the magnificent sun rising from the Everest summit as it emerges from behind the mountain. And it’s bouncing all the way across the mountain’s other side.

Many travel here, particularly for the sunrise and to obtain a close-up view of Everest. If you are not climbing Everest, this is the best opportunity to see it from so close up from Kala Patthar.

In addition, you get to see a lot of breathtaking peaks. Ama Dablam peak, Pumori peak, and the entire range are bathed in light as the sun rises.

On the other hand, it is advised to summit Kala Patthar summit for sunset if the weather is good and the prediction does not call for clouds on the eighth day. You will be able to see the sun’s final rays as they pass over the enormous Himalayas, which will glow brightly as they do. The alpenglow effect is a well-known name for it.

One of the most unforgettable experiences of a lifetime is watching the entire mountain range glow in the sky in colors like yellow, orange, and red.

Kala Patthar summit: Weather Guide

In Nepal, hiking is possible throughout the year. But it is recommended to visit in the ideal seasons to go climbing in Nepal, which are spring and autumn. Every month has a unique personality. While the spring season lasts from March to May, the autumn period lasts from September to November. These two seasons provide us with easy travel to almost all of Nepal. Similarly, we advise you to visit during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is fantastic.

This Kala Patthar summit trek is best done in the spring since you will pass through a rhododendron forest and see the stunning Mongolia flowers bloom. If you’re lucky, you could even get to see some of the Himalaya’s uncommon creatures and birds.

In a similar vein, autumn is advised due to the good weather and festival season. During this period, you will get the opportunity to extensively explore Nepalese culture.

However, please stay away from the winter (December to February) and rainy seasons (June to August) . Trekking during the rainy season increases the risk of accidents like tripping and slipping since the rain makes the terrain slick. Landslides, floods, leach biting, and being unable to attend a flight are some of the potential problems.

The heavy snowfall in winter is another unfavorable season. One cannot endure the extreme cold caused by heavy snow. Additionally, higher altitudes may make it difficult for you to locate lodging and food because tea houses and lodges are rarely open during the winter.

 

Kala Patthar summit Trek: Cost

If you have a query such as, “Will it cost more?” Do we have to pay more to get to the top of Kala Patthar summit?

No, is the answer. The Kala Patthar summit walk does not require any additional services, food, or lodging, hence it does not require extra cost. Since we’ve already said, Kala Patthar is an optional trekking route that comes after the EBC summit. If you are in good condition and have the stamina to go up, you must go to this location, which is a 2- to 3-hour hike from Ghorak Shep. If not, there’s no need to exert any more effort.

 

Kala Patthar summit: Difficulties and problems

Many hikers were unable to ascend to Kala Patthar summit for a variety of reasons, such as mountain sickness. At such a high altitude, you may have a variety of symptoms, including severe physical tiredness that makes it difficult to walk. Your body will ache, and you’ll also experience an intense cold. There are times when you’ll feel sleepy. When the oxygen level is low around Gorak Shep, altitude sickness may be experienced.

Additionally, you must be ready emotionally and physically. A view of snow-capped peaks tells us that the journey will get more challenging. One’s physical and mental endurance will be gradually tested at the start of an expedition. You won’t experience much trouble if you are well-acclimatized and take it gently, but you will need to rest often as you ascend. If you are not properly acclimated, you will find it to be a painful journey that will leave you exhausted and breathless. Additionally, the mental challenge is increased by the fact that it takes some time to reach Kala Patthar’s summit.

Precaution and care

It is best to be ready before starting the trek for the Kala Patthar summit in order to prevent these issues. It is necessary to engage in physical activity like jogging and running. Eat healthy food starting at the beginning of your journey. Furthermore, remember to hydrate well—at least 3 liters—while ascending. Water consumption is crucial to keeping your body hydrated. Likewise, you can take medications like Diamox to stay hydrated and avoid altitude sickness.

It is best to include the necessary first aid supplies so you can utilize them when necessary. Remember to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop dramatically in the wind at the peak. Due to the great height of Kala Patthar, frigid winds frequently blow, making the air even colder. You must take precautions to be safe. Wear additional layers of clothing since you might want to stay up there for a little while longer to take it all in. Trekking shoes are strongly recommended.

Kala Patthar summit: Packing List and Gear Requirements

You might consider bringing a headlamp because you will be trekking on some of the paths in the dark. On the peak, especially when you stop moving and are resting still, it may get rather cold and frigid. We did want to make a few basic observations regarding the climb to Kala Patthar Summit. We made a thorough packing list for Everest Base Camp that listed everything that we would need on the hike.

This is a detailed list of items to bring to Everest Base Camp from Kala Patthar summit. It comprises the clothing layers you should pack in order to stay warm throughout the Himalayan region’s climatic variations. Similar equipment and supplies are needed to make your walk pleasant and convenient so you may have the greatest experience possible.

It is best to get all your gear and necessities from Kathmandu because it is an excellent location for getting great deals on items.

Clothing

Trekking pants

A waterproof jacket with a hood

Waterproof pants

Thermal socks that are warm

Hiking boots with ankle support

Warm gloves

Sunglasses

Wool hat or balaclava (with covered ears)

Warm thermal sweatshirt

Moisture-wicking long-sleeve t-shirts

Camp/trekking shoes

 

Trekking Gears

Headlamp with extra batteries.

Trekking poles

Hand warmers

The camera with extra batteries and memory cards

Daypack waterproof cover

Water bottles or hydration bladders

 

Others

Sunscreen

Lip balm with SPF

Diamox (for altitude sickness)

Kala Patthar: Guide or Potters

During a trip, it’s possible that anything extreme or challenging will happen at any moment or location. You may become lost, ill, stumble, or unconscious. One could find it tough to confront and manage this sort of circumstance. It is practically impossible, especially in regions with high elevations and extreme cold like EBC and Kala Patthar.

Therefore, having an experienced guide on your trek who is aware of the dos and don’ts is quite important in these situations. Therefore, it is advised to use local sherpas for the entirety of the journey. Without a map, they will provide you with a ton of useful information as well as the correct directions to the elevation.

Hiring potters is optional as one has to carry their own backpack. However, if you have heavy backpacks with several items in them, such as cameras, videography equipment, and other heavy personal items, you must hire the potters who are accessible there.

Kala Patthar summit: Accommodation and Food

At Gorak Shep, there are nice lodges where you may stay. The lodges are constructed of wood and stone. The majority of the lodges up there, meanwhile, are without an attached restroom and are a little cold. Nonetheless, you cannot expect more facilities at a high altitude. However, some residents put forth a lot of effort to build facilities and opportunities like the lodges, delicious meals, secure environments, and friendly service.

You will likely receive tea, local food (dal, bhat, and tarkari), and Thukpa. The journey will seem to be alright because you will have access to delicious meals and coffee shops. Due to where it is located, you won’t have access to as many meal options as you would in places like Namche, Lukla, and other trail areas.

Itinerary:  Kala Patthar Summit Trek information

Day 1: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2,652m) 3/4hour

From Kathmandu, you will take a domestic flight to Lukla. Due to unfavorable wind conditions in the afternoon, flights to Lukla depart early in the morning. About 35 minutes pass throughout each flight. From the window, you may take in the gradual transition from Kathmandu Valley’s urban environment to higher and higher mountains as you move eastward. One can see many mountains in the north, as well as lowlands below, when the sky is clear.

Your journey will start when you leave the plane at Lukla by hiking down the Dudh Koshi’s bank to Phakding. You will go through a rhododendron forest while taking in the strong aroma of green pine.

Day 2: Phakding  trek to Namche Bazaar (3,500m) 4 to 6 hours

The second day takes you from Phakding to the Namche bazaar as the route becomes more vertical and the height increases. On your trip to Tibet, you’ll spend the night in Namche Bazaar. People from the Solukhumbu area and its surroundings converge here to do business. You may connect with friends, family, and dear ones due to the availability of stores, dining options, hotels, a bank, and internet services.

Day 3: Namche acclimatization day-Hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) and Khumjung (3,790m).

You may use your spare time to unwind, get used to the altitude, and explore Namche. From the Sagarmatha National Park, you may have a lovely morning while taking in the majestic views of Mount Everest, Thamserku, AmaDablam, and other magnificent peaks.

Day 4: Namche trek to Tengboche (3,985m) 5 to 6 hours.

On the Everest expedition trial, the day-four journey begins with a meandering, pleasant route that takes you upward. The trial offers stunning views of Mount Everest (8,848 m), Thamserku (6,618 m), and AmaDablam peak, which stands tall at 6,856 m on Mount Everest’s east edge. The walk takes you to Tengboche, which is noted for its Buddhist monastery and several large gumbas.

Day 5: Tengboche trek to Dingboche (4,110m)

The Sherpa’s initial settlement in the Khumbu region was Tengboche. Paying the lama some money will guarantee that you get to view some yeti relics, and the monastery is well worth a visit. Beyond Tengboche, you could feel the elevation shift, which might have an effect on you. The route then ascends through several recognizable Mani stones before descending to Dingboche, crossing the ImjaKhola.

Day 7: Dingboche trek to Lobuche / Pyramid (5,050m)

Due to the terrain and altitude, there are few routes that go to Lobuche. Along the trip, the road will be covered in snow. From this elevated vantage point, you may take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the enormous Mt. Everest and the nearby Himalayas.

Day 8: Pyramid  trek to Gorakshep (5,164) to EBC (5,364), night stay at Gorakshep

You’re going to Gorakshep on day 8. The trail offers views of the Highlands, the Snow River, and the Khumbu Glacier. The blessings from Mt. Everest will follow you all the way to Gorakshep. After eating at Gorakshep, you will go to the Kala Pathar to enjoy the sunset. No words can adequately convey the stunning sunset sight that will astound and silence you.

Day 9: Goraksep trek to Kala Patthar (5,643m) and descend to Namche Bazaar (3,500m)

Early in the morning, begin your climb to Kala Patthar to witness the sun rise. The mountains that can be viewed from Kala Pathar include Mt. Everest, Mt. Pumori, AmaDablam, Lingtren, Khumbetse, Thamserku, Lhotse, and Nuptse, among many other smaller peaks. Once you’ve descended, eat breakfast and head back to Dingboche (4400 m).

 

Day 10: Namche trek back to Lukla (2,860m)

The hike for this program ends on day 10. You’ll travel the path that descends to and crosses the Dudh Koshi. The route continues via the picturesque village of Chumoa and along the river till Phakding, when it swings left in the direction of Lukla. The end of the most challenging section of the journey and the end of an exciting and breathtaking adventure that has pushed one’s limits are indicated by the removal of the distant snowy peaks. You will now descend the Dudh Koshi while hiking through a lush rhododendron forest with a powerful evergreen oak aroma.

 

Last Day: Fly Lukla to Kathmandu (1,338 m)

After breakfast, take an early-morning flight to Kathmandu so you may leave the Everest area. The flight time may differ slightly depending on the weather.When your plane lands in Kathmandu, a representative from our company will meet you there and drive you in a private vehicle to your lodging.

Things to keep in mind: If all goes according to plan, the above-mentioned itinerary will be finished on the specified day, that is 11 days. However, the erratic weather and altitude path are always uncertain. During the trek, the weather might cause problems for you, such as heavy rain, snow, clouds, and wind. Flight cancellation or delay may arise in this circumstance because the flight will be unable to proceed. Therefore, it is advised that you bring some extra money, time, and days.

Kala Patthar: Helicopter Tour

One of the easiest ways to get so close to the majestic peaks of the Himalayas is on an Everest Helicopter Tour in Nepal. The helicopter trip is unquestionably the best way to experience mountains that are almost at your fingertips. It is perfect for those who wish to experience the Himalayas but have a limited amount of time. But, if you want a luxurious experience that is also exciting, it is wonderful for everyone else.

Most notably, there are several Himalayan helicopter tours you may take to see the size of Nepal’s Himalayas, including the Everest, Langtang, and Annapurna helicopter tours. A lifetime’s worth of memories is made by seeing the glistening snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and spectacular views of the barren landscape.

Anyhow, depending on the needs of the customers, Above the Himalaya Trekking provides helicopter trips to any of these locations. We provide solo, family, group, and other types of tours.

Visitors to Above the Himalaya Trekking may enjoy a stunning panoramic helicopter flight up the Khumbu Valley and around Mount Everest. It is a genuinely memorable experience to view the morphology of the terrain and the magnificent high Himalayan peaks from a viewpoint at a great height. In appearance order:

A helicopter takes flight

Dudh Koshi, the world’s highest river

Lobuche, Pumori, Khumbu Glacier

Cho Oyu

Ridgeline into China

Lobuche Glacier

Kala Patthar

Khumbu Icefall

Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse

 

Kala Patthar: Detail Heli tour guide

You may depart from Lukla to Kalapathar via helicopter. A flight will take around 3 hours to go to Kalapathar. As you go through several hills and various mountain ranges, you will witness numerous picturesque villages. You will be able to see the Everest region’s high Himalayas. You will be thrilled to view even greater and higher mountains, such as Thamserkhu and others, when you fly over the same valley as Lukla. You’ll pass Namche and its lovely surroundings.

You once again flew above the villages of Khumjung and Kunde to reach Mount Everest. You’ll see mountains along the way, including Mt. Pumori (7161 m), Lobuche peak (6119 m), and Mt. Choyu (8188 m).  Every season’s geographic location is fascinating in and of itself. A flight above the Khumbu glacier toward the Everest base camp while viewing the Pumori mountain range and Lobuche town will be an amazing experience.

You will turn around and head back toward Kalapathar with a glimpse of the Khumbu iceberg after almost reaching the Everest climber’s base camp. By the way, you may choose to land at either Everest Base Camp (5365 m) or Kalapathar (5400 m), but Kalapathar is always a superior choice for views.

You will arrive at Kalapathaar and be greeted with an amazing mountain panorama. It will be difficult to stand in a kalapather with low oxygen levels. You will thus spend a short time at Kalapathr. You will shortly be able to see Mount Everest and other things in their entirety. Then you will return to Kalapathar, where a helicopter trip is one of the best ways to get up close to the majestic Himalayan peaks.

You also have the choice of a heli-ride that descends. You can reserve a helicopter, for example, if you need to go by helicopter over short distances. Or if you need to descend, if you don’t want to spend four days walking back down after finishing the Everest Base Camp Trek.

FAQs

Why visit Kala Patthar?

You were able to glimpse the Everest summit, something that others were unable to do. The location offers you a breathtaking view of the peak of Mount Everest and the surrounding mountains.

Visiting is worthwhile even if it requires an optional trip from Everest base camp. Many hikers were unable to reach the top and left it because of a lack of oxygen.

Of course, the ascent was difficult, but once you arrived and waited for the sun to rise, which rises directly behind Mount Everest, everything turned golden. You wish to live there forever as a result of this.

How difficult is trek to Kala Patthar?

Although the trek is short, it is upward and at a high altitude. An average hiker should need between 2-3 hours to reach the viewpoint of Kalapatthar.

The route does become more challenging to navigate and rockier as you ascend higher on it. Just be careful not to slip or fall during these sections because you don’t want to get injured while climbing or descending the hillside.

What is the altitude of Kala Patthar?

The elevation of Kala Patthar is 5,644 meters (18,176 ft).

How long does it take to climb Kala Patthar from Everest Base Camp?

From Ghorak Shep, the Kala Patthar summit walk takes roughly 2–3 hours to complete. The trip is typically completed by most tours early in the morning before descending to Lukla.

Can you see Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar summit?

One of the greatest places in Sagarmatha National Park to see Mount Everest itself is Kala Patthar. The place to go if you want a clear, up-close view of Mount Everest is Kala Patthar. There is more to Kala Patthar (5,644 meters) than just a sight.

You will also be able to see other well-known mountains, like Nuptse, Changtse, Ama Dablam, Everest-West Schulter, and Pumori.

How to reach Kala Patthar summit?

In fact, there are two ways to get to the Kala Patthar: by helicopter or on foot from Gorakhshep. But keep in mind that due to the area’s rugged and mountainous terrain, the helicopter cannot land on the trek to  Kala Patthar.

Conclusion

In general, this entire page is about routes to Everest Base Camp that involve a trek to Kala Patthar summit for sunrise on day 9. But if the weather is fine, I’d advise going to Kala Patthar in the late afternoon on Day 8 to catch the sunset.

Don’t forget to buy a complete travel insurance plan for your Himalayan trekking adventure before you leave on your journey. It includes emergency medical coverage for high-altitude activities like hiking in the Himalayas and the standard coverage for things like airline delays, lost baggage, and trip cancellations. Travel insurance is essential for so many facets of a journey and is especially important if you want to hike in Nepal.

Overall, the trek to Kala Patthar summit  will be thrilling and challenging. However, all of your difficulties will disappear as soon as you get to the viewpoint and see the lovely sunrise with your own two eyes. It will feel great and surreal. You will see the sky as it glows bright pink and red like the sunrise for a long period of time. Additionally, the mountain all around you was lit up in a magnificent morning mini-avalanche going down.

You must take the trek to Kala Patthar summit to experience this momentous morning, which you will never forget since you will also feel on top of the world. Kala Patthar is a better location to visit if you want a deeper and clearer picture of Mount Everest. Despite some challenges, the location provides you with a wonderful moment in its most beautiful scenery. When you travel to the Everest region, you must visit these spots to experience the splendor of the Himalayas.