Mt. Nirekha is in the Mahalangur Region, deep in the Himalayas and close to the Tibetan border. The mountain is conspicuously hidden among the well-known giants of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Cholatse. The climb itself is relatively straightforward, though it does require ice-axe, crampons and some fixed rope sections. It is a very do-able climb for anyone in good shape and with a desire for high adventure.
Elevation : 6188m | Range/Region : Mahalangur/Khumbu |
Latitude : 27o 58' 12" | Longitude : 86o 45' 36" |
Royalty Group : A | Trip duration : 26 days |
Trip Grade : D+ | Starts : Lukla |
Mt. Nirekha (6,186 m) is located in the Khumbu region close to the well-known Cho La crossing between Gokyo and Lobuche. This peak lies just west of Lobuche West
It’s a great route for experienced alpine climbers. The ascent is mostly on ice and snow but demands good fitness and acclimatization as most of the difficult climbing is above 5,820 m.
Though the peak can be reached via the valley above Dragnag on the route to the Cho La pass, it is easier and safer to start at Kanchung Base Camp (5,250 m) near the Gaunara Glacier. The summit is reachable in nine hours from there in good conditions.
Both routes converge on the Cho La Col (5,690 m) and continue along the West-Ridge that consists of snow and loose rock getting continually steeper towards the summit. There are two distinct summits of near equal height and the South Summit is easier to reach.
The first ascent was done by Matt Fioretti and Greg Valentine in April 2003. The second ascent was done by an all women team in October 2003
Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu International Airport- T I A (1300m) and transfer to hotel.
Day 02: After breakfast we set out for an extensive guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu valleys cultural, historical, religious (world heritage) sites. During the course, we visit the famous Pashupatinath temple of Lord Shiva situated at the holy bank of River Bagmati where we will also observe the Hindu cremation ritual. We then proceed to the Boudhanath stupa, a major pilgrimage centre for the Buddhist faith which also is the largest of its kind in the world. We then have a short break for lunch followed by a visit to Swoyambhunath stupa also known as the Monkey Temple from where we can have a bird’s eye view of whole of Kathmandu valley. Following this we then proceed for a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square, the oldest royal palace of Kathmandu and a UNESCO world heritage site. The whole area of Kathmandu Durbar Square is dotted with numerous fascinating Nepalese architect dating back many centuries. The site is also the home to Nepal’s living Goddess – Kumari, where we will also have the opportunity to experience firsthand this unique Nepali tradition. In the evening we will attend the welcome dinner hosted by Makalu Adventure with live Nepalese culture shows.
Day 03: Kathmandu ( 1310m) - Lukla (2827m) - Phakding (2652m) 5 hours
After a very early start, and an early take off from Kathmandu Domestic Airport, a 45 minute flight is all it takes to propel us into the Everest region of Nepal. The landing at Lukla (2800m) is spectacular and on arrival we are greeted by our sirdar and trekking crew who organise the luggage and hustle us off for tea. After a leisurely lunch we start the trek in earnest, setting off for a gentle walk to Phakding (2800m), a further 3 hours to the north. The trail leads through Lukla, past hotels, shops and airline offices to the edge of the Lukla plateauwhere the trail drops to meet the intersection of the Jiri trail at Chablung. From here the trail follows the Dudh Kosi north through the village of Ghat and then finally to Phakding where we spend the night.
Day 04: Phakding - Namche Bazar (3440m) 7 hours
From Phakding, the trail continues north up the Dudh Kosi valley to Jorsale, where the trail officially enters the Sagarmatha National Park. There is an entrance station just beyond the village where trekking permits are checked and National Park fees collected. Continue along the trail, crossing the Bhote Kosi River to begin the steep climb up to Namche Bazaar 3,440m the administrative centre of the Sagarmatha National Park and the hub of Sherpa society. Remember to look out for glimpses of Mt. Everest from the trail on the way to Everest! Overnight at Camp or Lodge.
Day 05: leisure (acclimatization) in Namche Bazaar: We will rest a full day at Namche Bazar allowing our bodies to acclimatize to the altitude of 3440m. In the morning there is an option of walking up to the Everest View Hotel (3450m) or alternatively to Khumjung - a good outing and takes us up to 3840 meters (12,600 feet). Here we get our first open views of Everest and Ama Dablam. We return to Namche for lunch in the afternoon and spending the whole day completely at rest. Overnight at Camp or Lodge.\
Day 06: Trek to Dole (4084m) via Khumjung
Day 07: Trek to Machhermo (4150m)
Day 08: Trek to Gokyo (4750m)
Day 09: Climb to Gokyo Ri (5483m) and back to Gokyo
Day 10: Trek to Thangna (4950m)
Day 11: Trek to Nirekha Base Camp
Day 12: Acclimatization at Nirekha Base camp
Day 13: Trek to High Camp
Day 14: High Camp to Nirekha Summit (6169m) & return to Base Camp
Day 15: Extra day for attempting summit in case of bad weather
Day 16: Cross over Chola pass and Camp at Dzongla
Day 17: Trek to Lobuche
Day 18: Trek to Gorakshep, hike to EBC & back to Gorakshep
Day 19: Trek to Kalapathar & back to Lobuche.
Day 20: Trek to Dingboche.
Day 21: Trek to Tengboche Monastery
Day 22: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 23: Trek to Lukla
Day 24: Fly to Kathmandu, rest of the day at leisure or self exploration, if you would like.
Day 25: Full day leisure at Kathmandu or self exploration if you would like. In the afternoon you could go for last minute shopping while gathering at late afternoon for a rather jubilant farewell dinner – cocktail party hosted by Makalu Adventure.
Day 26: Final departure.
Should you prefer a different route or itinerary for this program, just let us know your interests and we will be more than happy to craft a tailor made trip for you in line with your specific preference.
For Lodge-to-Lodge Trek (whereas applicable):
Trekking in Nepal
Expeditions In Nepal
Rafting in Nepal
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