Kongma Tse Peak Climb
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trip info
Duration
20 days
Max Altitude
5849m
Difficulty
Strenous
Starts from
Kathmandu
Trips Ends at
Kathmandu
Activity
Expedition
Accommodation
Meals
Included
Weather
°C
Group Size
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Region
Everest Region Trekking Packages
Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, taking in breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Trek through the Dudh Kosi valley, with its stunning forests of rhododendrons, magnolias and giant firs, alive with exotic wildlife.
As part of the itinerary, we took a rest day at Namche Bazaar and also visited Tengboche Monastery.
Cross the challenging Kongma La Pass at 5,535 metres to Kongma Tse Base Camp.
Summit ascent of Kongma Tse Peak - 5849m, with the most spectacular panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori.
An incredible cultural tour to the Sherpa Museum, celebrating the mountaineering history/equipment of the Sherpa.
Visit to Tengboche monastery – one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries in Khumbu Valley.
Trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for close-up views of Mount Everest.
Trek through stunning mountain scenery & sherpa villages.
Ample time for reflection is provided on this magnificent journey through the heartland of the Sherpa people.
Kongma Tse Peak Climb Overview
Beginning on the 20-day Kongma Tse Peak Climb is a perfect way to experience cultural journeys and high-altitude mountaineering in Nepal’s Everest region.
Kongma Tse, or Mehra Peak, soars at an elevation of 5,849 meters north of Kongma La over Khumbu Glacier. It was opened for climbing in the Spring of 2002, but remains one of the less frequented boulders of the region.
The trip starts with a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla – the gateway town of the Everest Region. Trekking through Dudh Kosi Valley will take us to the ever-bustling Sherpa hub Namche Bazaar, where we’ll have enough time for an acclimatization walk and exploration of Namche’s interesting market and monasteries, highlighting rich Sherpa culture.
We then continue trekking west, following classic routes over the famous Tengboche monastery along Imja Tse River Valley with memorable views toward Island Peak and Ama Dablam till we reach Dingboche.
The Everest Base Camp with Kongma La Pass itinerary includes acclimatization rest days, which help climbers acclimate to the altitude and minimize the chances of altitude sickness.
These days also present good opportunities for hiking around neighbouring ridges and for general relaxation, with fantastic views of Ama Dablam and Lhotse.
Further along the trek is Lobuche, a small village situated below some of the most dramatic Himalayan peaks. From Lobuche, you will hike over the 5,535-meter-high Kongma La Pass before descending to the Kongma Tse base camp.
Climbing gear is used on part of the summit day from camp one onward. At base camp, our experienced climbing Sherpas will give you a complete briefing of the climb and demonstrate the proper way off using your harness, crampons, and ice axe on this exposed section.
The ascent of Kongma Tse is a combination of trekking and basic technical climbing. Most commonly, climbers choose to hike the southeast ridge along the glacier of Nuptse and cross several ridges made up of rock or snow/ice.
Although it’s a less difficult peak, it demands some high-quality fitness, good acclimatization, and some basic mountaineering climbing on rocks mixed with Ice and snow experience.
From Kongma La towards Khumbu peaks, climbers will see a panorama of high giants like Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,462 m), Cho Oyu(8,201 m), Nuptse Peak, etc.
Acclimatization is a key part of this trek. Several rest days are built into allow climbers to adjust to the thinning air and lessen the chances of altitude-related problems. You will also have the opportunity during these rest days to explore nearby ridges for even better views, especially of Ama Dablam and Lhotse.
Difficulty Level of Khongma Tse Peak Climbing
Kongma Tse Peak, also known as Mehra Peak, is a challenging climb at 5,849 meters in the Everest region. The difficulty of climbing Kongma Tse Peak is rated PD (Peu Difficile) using the Alpine Grading System, which means.
However, there are some difficult sections on the route to the summit, it can be easily climbed by a novice climber who is well-acclimatized and who has basic knowledge of using an ice axe and crampons.
Ascents involve glaciated terrain with some steep snow and ice slopes; these are not normally difficult but will require the use of an ice axe and crampons. Some previous technical climbing experience will be required to safely ascend; this could include previous ascents at altitude or glaciers.
Acclimatization is needed since the peak stands at such a great elevation. Good acclimatization programs with enough rest days and steady ascents can reduce the potential dangers of high altitude.
Himalayan weather can be highly changeable with storms, and rapid temperature drops are not unusual. Climbers must have appropriate clothing while being prepared to alter plans if need be due to bad weather.
Kongma Tse Peak is a moderately technical peak that will test your skills. The main difficulty in this peak is the high altitude. But if you are well-acclimatized and have basic mountaineering skills, you will love climbing this mountain peak.
Preparation for Kongma Tse Peak Climb
Preparing yourself for a successful summit of Kongma Tse Peak (5,849 meters) takes a multi-dimensional approach, including physical training, technical skills, acclimatization and logistics.
Physical Fitness:
Physical exercise should become an integral part of trainee preparation. Your training routine should incorporate cardio exercises to build fitness, but also include weight lifting for core and leg development, and walking with a backpack to strengthen you for real mountain climbs.
Your physical fitness must provide enough stamina to walk for several days and succeed with mountain climbing challenges.
Technical Skills:
The classification of this peak as a trekking destination should not prevent climbers from obtaining vital mountaineering training. Climbers who understand ice axe techniques and rope handling alongside crampons improve both their safety conditions and their ice and glacier navigation confidence. Taking a mountaineering course alongside formal mountain training will be beneficial.
Acclimatization:
Allowing for gradual acclimatization is very important when developing an itinerary to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Incorporating rest days at higher elevations, such as Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, will help in your acclimatization process. Be familiar with AMS symptoms and keep hydrated.
Logistics and Permits:
You need to get a climbing permit for Kongma Tse and entry permits for Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. Find a good trekking agency that will provide/help you with all of your logistics, as well as with guides/porters.
Gear Preparation:
Bring the right gear. Layered clothing for all temperatures, great trekking boots, and excellent camping gear are a must since we’ll be self-contained in such a remote part of the world.
Mental Preparation:
Having mental preparedness is as important as physical preparedness. Understanding what you’re getting into and being ready to meet whatever comes up makes for the best time out there.
Best Time for Kongma Tse Peak Climb
Choosing the right season is important to ensure safety during this time-consuming and physically demanding peak climbing. Spring and autumn are the best times for very frequent ascents to Kongma Tse Peak, but with good preparation and suitable equipment, it can be climbed in the other seasons as well, which offer similar conditions. Here is a detail about each season.
Spring (March to May):
Spring is one of the most popular times to climb Kongma Tse. Generally, the weather is good, with a clear sky providing brilliant views of the Himalayan range of peaks. Daytime temperatures at lower elevations will average around 10ºC - 17 ºC and can get below freezing at night above 5,000m. Rhododendrons in bloom en route make this an especially colorful trip as well.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn is the best season for climbing. The weather is stable, with clear skies and dry conditions. The temperature during the day varies from 7 to 15 degrees Celsius, which means there may be some snow in higher elevations; however, it will not affect your summit attempt. There are fewer crowds of trekkers on this route compared to Spring, making it a calm place for meditation and enjoying the natural beauty of Khumbu Glacier. Post-monsoon times have excellent clarity.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August):
The summer months (June, July, and August) are also the monsoon season in Nepal, so there’s a lot of rainfall, especially at lower elevations. It can make trails very muddy, slippery , and more difficult to trek on- it also increases the risk of landslides.
The monsoonal cloud cover will block most views of the mountains, and as such, you’ll miss out on one of the main attractions of this region as well. Lastly, again, with landslides, your safest bet is probably to just avoid trekking here if you possibly can during summer.
Winter (December to February):
Winter (December, January, and February) sees temperatures drop significantly all over the Himalayas, with temperatures at higher elevations dropping well below the freezing point.
The accumulation of snow that occurs means that climbing Kongma Tse becomes more technically difficult as you approach the summit. Weather skies are generally clear in Winter, although colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours make for a challenging trip.
A Typical Day in Khongma Tse Peak Climbing
The morning of a Kongma Tse Peak trekking day starts with a gentle climb from the teahouse lodge itself after having a good, nutritious breakfast. Then, following the upward trail, trekkers pass rugged terrain and suspension bridges over the glacial streams.
This path goes along thick rhododendrons and pine forests, sometimes opening up to glimpses into nearby towering peaks such as Ama Dablam and Lhotse.
Most of the time, the route passes through Sherpa villages throughout the day, with possibilities for tourists to experience the local way of life and perhaps take a momentary pause with a hot cup of tea.
Lunch is usually a big meal at a teahouse along the trail that provides energy for the afternoon trek.
Later in the day, the climbs are much steeper, and the landscape becomes more barren and alpine as you get higher in elevation. Late afternoon brings us to today's destination teahouse. For trekkers, this is where you will rest and have dinner.
For days on which you make your summit push, the itinerary reads differently. On those days, climbers wake at around 2:00 AM and begin climbing by about 3:00 AM with the goal of reaching the summit by early morning before heavy clouds roll in which can create poor visibility and dangerous climbing conditions.
After spending a few minutes atop this monumental peak, it’s time to descend back down to high camp, arriving back there by early afternoon.
Itinerary Detail
What is Included / Not Included
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Accommodation (3-star standard)
On the Kongma Tse Peak climb, you will get to experience a mix of different accommodations, and you will be assured of your comfort throughout the journey. In Kathmandu, climbers usually stay at 3-star hotels, which offer plush rooms with standard amenities in a peaceful setting right in central Thamel.
As you start on the trekking trail, the accommodation changes to lodges/guesthouses/tea houses that provide very basic but clean and cosy shelter to get refreshed.
For the peak climbing segment, it is camping all the way. Climbers stay overnight at tented camps. This gives an opportunity for trekkers/climbers to stay amidst nature, keeping themselves in closer proximity to the mountains.
This combination of accommodations allows climbers to experience both luxury and a sense of history on their Kongma Tse Peak trek, staying in 3-star hotels, tea houses and tented camps.
Single Supplementary:
During the Kongma Tse Peak climb, a single supplement is offered to you if you want to have your private room or tent for the whole trek. In this accommodation option, you have your privacy and won’t need to share a room or tent.
We realise that almost all traveller value their privacy, and we want you to feel comfortable when trekking with us. For those who prefer not to share, we provide a single supplement option, which guarantees a single room/tent for yourself during the trip, wherever possible.
To make your climb as comfortable as possible, we pre-book these for you when you select this option on booking. Either staying in lodges or tents makes the experience all the better, and not having to compete with others at the end of the day's walk tops it off.
Drinking Water in Khongma Tse Peak Climbing
Ensuring access to safe drinking water is essential while climbing Kongma Tse Peak. You should drink at least 3 to 4 litres of water per day to stay hydrated and help acclimate.
While trekking, you can buy boiled water in tea houses for NPR 150-300 per litre, with the price increasing at higher elevations. Boiled water is safe to drink and can also be used as a hot water bottle in your bed at night.
Cold water is available free of charge in tea houses. However, you must treat this before drinking. A handheld UV filter, such as a SteriPEN, works well and treats 1 litre in a couple of minutes, making it immediately ready.
Bring along a wide-mouthed bottle for this purpose. We highly discourage buying bottled mineral water because this contributes to plastic pollution on the trail. Instead, bring your water treatment tablets or a good filter from your home country so that you have no regrets regarding drinking safe water during your climb.
Meals in Khongma Tse Peak Climbing
Kongma Tse Peak climb package includes standard breakfast, lunch and dinner provided on a tea-house basis during trekking whilst at the high camps during the climbing period.
Trekkers/climbers will stay in local lodges/teahouses where the meals are more basic, consisting of traditional Nepali foods, i.e., rice, curry, lentils, momos and chapatis, as well as some Western food such as pizza, pasta and sandwiches.
However, as you progress to higher altitudes and while climbing on Kongma Tse itself, you will be staying at tented camps with our team of experienced cooks. Meals will be specially designed for high altitudes, providing good nutrition levels required for much greater exertion at these altitudes.
Note: Trekking/climbing the mountain may limit the availability of some ingredients; however, we aim to provide natural, non-processed foods full of goodness and energy.
In Kathmandu, accommodation will be provided on a bed and breakfast basis prior to the expedition and after the completion of your climb. Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu are not included in the expedition cost, allowing climbers to have some flexibility regarding food choices and budget.
Exclusive Arrangements with Himalayan Trekkers
Himalayan Trekkers provides a true taste of Nepali culture and includes Welcome and Farewell Dinners in Kathmandu. Snacks for personal use are also encouraged. Dietary preference for the choice of food is given to climbers, but it may not always be possible or feasible in remote areas.
Mobile Reception and Internet Access
During the Kongma Tse Peak climb, mobile reception and internet access will be available to you at lower altitudes, but expect it to get tougher as you gain height.
You can easily find Wi-Fi services for an extra charge in almost all of the teahouses, enough places like Lukla and Namche Bazaar, but signals can be erratic. Once you have crossed Namche Bazaar, you won’t come across these Wi-Fi facilities.
The most reliable network for a good connection this high in Everest is ‘Everest Link.’ They provide data packages of 1GB for USD10 and 512MB for USD5, which have a validity of approximately 30 days.
As you head higher up and near Kongma Tse Peak, the mobile network signal is weak, and the internet works on a luck basis or often with no service. The local service providers may not work properly in these remote places.
So, for your important communication purposes, we advise you to rent a mobile satellite phone.
Electric Plugs and Adapters
Nepal has three types of power plugs/sockets: type C, type D, and type M. The standard voltage is 230 V with a frequency of 50 Hz. Two round pins characterize Type C plugs (or the so-called Europlug) and are common in Europe.
Type D plugs have three round pins positioned triangularly and are widely used across the Indian subcontinent. Type M plugs are similar to that of type D, but they have larger pins and are less common.
Travellers coming from countries with other types of power plugs/sockets, such as the US, need to get a plug adapter in order to charge their electronic devices in Nepal. It is recommended to carry a worldwide travel adapter since it can work with any kind of power socket/plug around the world.
In regard to voltage, Nepal uses 230 V, which is higher than 120 V, which is used in the United States. If your appliances are not dual-voltage (i.e., they don’t accept 230 V), you will need a voltage adapter/ converter so as not to risk damaging your appliances. Some travel adapters have built-in voltage conversion, but please read the label to make sure.
At higher altitudes, such as during the Kongma Tse Peak climb, electricity might also be limited or not available at all. Most tea houses/ lodges use solar power or a small kind of generator and might not support high energy-consuming devices like hair dryers/ laptops, etc.
Group Joining/Fixed Departure
Group Joining:
Group join is booking a scheduled trek or expedition with other already been booked. This is best for people who don’t mind the company of other people during the trip.
Generally, the group size we accommodate for the Kongma Tse peak climb ranges from 2 to 15, which means the group will be a great mixture of people from all over the world with a variety of experiences in mountain climbing. Moreover, it costs comparatively low as you share your expenses with other members.
Fixed Departure:
A fixed departure is a trek or expedition that will start on a set date. Choosing this option guarantees that a trip will happen as scheduled, which can be helpful for planning. There are fixed departures for climbing Kongma Tse Peak with specific dates already set in place, and those looking to try and time their travels around such an experience can use the fixed departure dates as a basis.
Private Trip
Unlike group departures, private trips feature a flexible departure date and allow you to customise the itinerary, accommodation and travel during your schedule with the people you know.
It is perfect for an individual trip (solo), family trip or small friend group trip who want to travel with their close ones only. Also, as there will be a personal guide, climbing Sherpa and support team in the whole trek/climbing period, safety and comfort levels increase.
Many travellers find private trips more costly than group tours, but personalised flexibility and guide-focused care generate excellent value despite higher expenditures. The best approach to booking a personal travel experience is to contact us so we can develop customised trip plans for you.
Packing List
We have a recommended packing list that will help you decide what to bring for the climb of Kongma Tse Peak. It covers all the necessary clothing, footwear and personal gear that we require for the varying conditions on this trek.
Apart from standard trekking gear, which is required for lower altitude treks, you will need warm clothing and equipment suited to climbing, as well as technical climbing gear specific to the course requirements.
For detailed information, download our packing list PDF. This will help you not forget anything important or leave any important things behind.
Booking Procedure For Kwangde Peak Climbing
Once your trip is confirmed, we will send you a traveller's information form and proforma invoice. A 20% deposit of the total amount is required to confirm your booking and can be paid by wire transfer, online payment or through a PayPal invoice.
Payment details can be found on the proforma invoice. The final payment can be made before the trip starts, and this too can be adjusted via wire transfer, credit/debit card, PayPal cash or online payment at your convenience.
If making an online transfer, it takes 1-2 working days to reflect into our account. Wire transfers take approximately 3-5 working days to reach our account. As soon as we receive your payment, you will be notified as well as sent a receipt for your records.
Cancellation Policy
From the traveller's end, if there is any cancellation following is the refund policy.
6 months before the trip, 20 % of the trip booking deposit will be returned.
3 months before the trip: 25% of the trip booking deposit will be refunded.
2 months before the trip: 50% of the trip booking deposit will be refunded.
1 month before the trip: A deposit amounting to 100% of the trip booking will be forfeited.
In case of postponing the trip for whatever reason, the deposited amount with us will be safe for three years. Note that the prices will change then, considering the market scenario at that time.
In cases where we, the operators, have to cancel a trip for whatever reason, a traveller shall be refunded 100% of the deposit paid for the trip, irrespective of the timeline of cancellation. This will ensure full compensation for the travellers should the trip not be possible to go through for whatever unforeseen circumstance.
FAQ
General
What is included in the climbing package?
What is included in the climbing package?
Most of the climbing packages for Kongma Tse Peak include accommodation, meals, permits, guides and necessary climbing equipment. Also, they include transportation from Kathmandu to the trailhead and back.
Do we need a climbing permit for the use of Kongma Tse Peak?
Do we need a climbing permit for the use of Kongma Tse Peak?
Yes, a climbing permit is required to ascend the Kongma Tse Peak, and the Nepal Mountaineering Association issues it through the registered trekking agency in Nepal. The fees collected from the permits go to maintain the trekking routes and conservation work, health posts, etc.
How do I get to the starting point of the trek?
How do I get to the starting point of the trek?
The trek to Kongma Tse Peak generally starts in Lukla (the starting point) and then several days of trekking to reach the base camp. Transportation is usually arranged in the climbing package via Flight to Lukla From Kathmandu.
What does the 20-day climb itinerary look like?
What does the 20-day climb itinerary look like?
The itinerary is typically a couple of days of trekking to acclimatize, summit attempt and return to base camp, with a day allocated for each part on average. Each day is designed to allow rest/acclimatization as best possible so that clients are in the best position to be able to reach the top.
How big are the groups in the climb on average?
How big are the groups in the climb on average?
The average group size for the Kongma Tse Peak climb can be up to 10 or 20 participants to make the climb more personalized and safety-based, full of support. The smaller the group, the better, while the group can travel efficiently.
Is travel insurance a must to have in the climb?
Is travel insurance a must to have in the climb?
We strongly recommend that all our clients purchase a comprehensive insurance policy covering emergency medical evacuation, cancellation, and other unforeseeable eventualities, along with high-altitude climbing risks.
What if I fall ill while climbing?
What if I fall ill while climbing?
If you fall ill, you should inform the guide if you are not feeling well during the climb. The guide analyzes the situation and makes decisions about whether to go down to get medical attention or take some rest.
Does one have an age limit for climbing Kongma Tse Peak?
Does one have an age limit for climbing Kongma Tse Peak?
There are no strict age limitations, but usually, the trekkers/climbers ought to be in the right health conditions and fit to respond to the demands of the climb.
Can I extend my trip to include other peaks or treks?
Can I extend my trip to include other peaks or treks?
Most trekkers like to add a few more peaks or treks around the area - Island Peak or Everest Base Camp Trek usually feature in almost all itineraries. Discuss options with your trekking agency to tailor-make it as per your interest.
Can one Solo Trek to Kongma Tse Peak?
Can one Solo Trek to Kongma Tse Peak?
Due to the question of safety and permits required for Kongma Tse Peak, solo trekking is not quite a good idea. Go in a group or take a hired guide to ensure safety and companionship, which allows a more fulfilling experience.
