7 Mar 2024 Prakash Devkota
Pokalde Peak a.k.a Dolma Ri, is one of the easiest and fascinating trekking peaks in Nepal, situated about just 12km southwest of the highest snow-clad mountain in the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 meters). Labeled as the ‘Trekking Peak’, the Pokalde Peak Climbing difficulty has been labeled as a ‘moderate to relatively easier’ expedition.
This incredible Himalayan peak in the Khumbu region, situated at an altitude of 5,806 meters (19,048 feet) from sea level, is even considered one of the easiest expeditions among the trekking peaks in Nepal. There are no technical segments on the slopes of this pristine Himalayan peak, and beginner climbers can do this expedition as a practice climb before scaling technical mountains.
Although this trekking peak has been graded as one of the easiest expeditions for the beginner climber, it doesn’t mean that the climb is entirely easy. The section near the summit of Pokalde Peak, especially, is slightly physically demanding as you have to ascend on the vertical slopes using rope and need to scramble on the slopes to reach the top of the mountain.
Similarly, there are several other factors you have to consider in this high-altitude journey, which takes you across the remote trails of the Himalayas to the summit of an alpine peak. Let’s discuss some of the major challenging factors of Pokalde Peak Climbing and how to overcome them easily.
Pokalde Peak Climbing Difficulty Breakdown
Although the Pokalde Peak Climbing difficulty is at a milder to relatively easier level, it is still an incredible journey to the Himalayas, which takes you across the high altitudes and remote parts of the region.
So, even if the challenges are not that significant, you will still have to overcome some of the major hurdles in this journey like:
Altitude Gain
Altitude gain is one of the significant hurdles of any high-altitude adventure. As the altitude gain is directly related to the Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), you will have to be very careful about this aspect in your journey.
You will start your trek after Kathmandu (1,400 meters) to Lukla (2,860 meters), and moving to the further elevation points of the mainstream Everest Base Camp Trek route; you will pass high-altitude settlements like Namche Bazaar (3,446 meters), Tengboche (3,800 meters), Dingboche (4,360 meters), and Lobuche (4,900 meters).
The journey further ahead then leads you through Gorak Shep (5,150 meters) to Everest Base Camp (5,365 meters). After a hike to Kalapatthar (5,545 meters), you will then descend back to Lobuche, from where you will head toward the Pokalde Base Camp (4,400 meters) via Kongma La Pass (5,455 meters).
Moving toward the main objective of the trip, you will push for the summit of Pokalde Peak (5,806 meters) via Pokalde High Camp (5,000 meters). Then, trekking down to the Chukkung (4,730 meters), you will join the EBC Trek route at Tengboche and gradually trek down to Lukla for the flight back to Kathmandu.
Thus, in overall, you will traverse across the significant altitudes in the 4,000-meter and 5,000-meter class with a total altitude gain of a whopping 2,945 meters, starting from Lukla and the highest elevation point being the summit of Pokalde Peak.
Trekking Distance
Besides the altitude gain, the overall trekking distance of the expedition is another challenging factor of the Pokalde Peak Climbing difficulty. Moving along the route of the mainstream Everest Base Camp Trek, you will also need to trek over one of the high Himalayan passes, Kongma La Pass (5,455 meters) in this journey.
The total distance of the Pokalde Peak Expedition is about roughly 163 km (101 miles). This exhilarating Himalayan expedition takes you across the mainstream EBC Trek route, and after exploring the base camp, you will follow the trails toward the peak from Lobuche.
You will trek about 6-7 hours per day on average during the trekking part of this iconic expedition. Whereas the summit push day will be one of the longest walking days in the entire adventure, you will need to walk about 8 to 9 hours to complete the expedition and climb down to Chhukung.
Unpredictable Climate
In general, the climatic conditions of the high-altitude regions can be unpredictable at times. As the Himalayan region has a climatic zone of its own, you will always need to be on the lookout for the weather challenges the region throws your way.
It doesn’t take that much time for the clear blue skies to be overshadowed by snow or rain clouds. Similarly, the blizzards are notorious phenomenons at high altitude regions. The weather obstacle is all the time especially during the low seasons like winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to August).
Furthermore, even though the lower trekking trails have warm, accommodating temperatures, at the alpine altitudes, it is generally cold. The night and early morning temperatures can drop to minus degrees at the high altitude regions.
Remoteness
If you have never done high-altitude treks in Nepal, then you need to understand the Himalayan regions of the country are remote and secluded regions. Everest region, especially which has no viable land transport mode is among one of the most isolated regions in the country.
Still, as the mainstream trekking region in the country, the services available in the mainstream trekking route are from standard to luxurious level. But, only the lower regions are mostly developed and well-suited to accommodate every need of the trekkers.
As you ascend to higher altitudes, the amenities and services are in limited number, and you will have to make do with available facilities. Similarly, you will also need to spend two nights camping out as there is no teahouses enroute to the peak.
Although the experience is simply outstanding during this remote wilderness exploration of the Himalayas, the journey can be challenging if you are not used to leaving your comfort zone.
Acclimatization Period
This factor will mostly depend on the itinerary plans of your package and the pace of the journey. Acclimatizing while doing high-altitude adventures is one of the most basis requirements, not just to give the body a proper rest but also to consider the safety factors.
So, your expedition packages take you on a slow-paced adventure with enough acclimatization period along the way so you will have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. However, if your adventure is rushed without proper rest, you might feel physically exhausted and even put yourself at risk of altitude sickness.
The minimum altitude gain recommendation for the altitude journey is about 500 meters per day. Similarly, after climbing over the altitude of 1,000 meters, you will need to take an acclimatization day to give your body enough to adapt to new altitudes.
Tips to Minimize Pokalde Peak Climbing Difficulty
After discussing the Pokalde Peak Climbing difficulty factors, you might be worried about whether this iconic Himalayan expedition might be the right adventure for you or not. Although there are several hurdles you will have to be on the lookout for, they are on the milder side.
You will be able to easily overcome most of the difficulty factors of this iconic Himalayan journey with an adequate amount of training and preparedness. Check out the following tips to minimize the overall difficulty level of the Pokalde Peak Expedition.
Train Adequately for the Expedition
The first step to overcoming the major challenging hurdles of this expedition, like altitude gain and trekking distance, is to train efficiently. If you train enough, the long days of trekking will not leave you exhausted and drained.
Similarly, your fitness level directly affects your body’s capability to consume and deliver oxygen level. If you can optimize the stamina training and cardiovascular exercises besides focussing on enhancing the core strength and endurance level, the acclimatization process will be much easier.
You should train for at least 3 to 6 weeks for the high-altitude trek in the Himalayas. However, as this expedition will take on the top of Pokalde Peak, it is important to slightly extend the training period. You can consult the climbing guide or professional trainer to design an effective training program and set the required duration of the program.
Recommended Strength and Endurance Exercises
- Lunge
- Squat
- Pushup
- Plank
- Deadlift
- Dumbell Row
- Bicep Curl
- Bentover Row
- Pull Up
- Glute Bridge
- Leg Raise
- Overhead Press’Upright Row
- Leg Raise
- Step Up
- Leg Extension
- Leg Press
Recommended Stamina and Cardiovascular Exercises
- Cycling
- Burpee
- Jumping Jack
- High Knee
- Rope Jumping
- Rowing
- Dancing
- Aerobics
- Cardio
- Mountain Climber
- Stair Climbing
Eat a Balanced Meal and Drink Enough Water
Besides the physical preparation, another effective way to counter altitude sickness during this Pokalde Peak Expedition is to drink enough water and eat a balanced diet. Most trekkers feel the loss of appetite while doing high-altitude treks as it takes time for the body to adjust to new altitudes.
Instead of switching to packed food, you should eat a healthy meal and force yourself to take the first few bites even if you have to. After that, your body will slowly start to adapt to the new altitude and start accepting food.
It is important to look for nutritious value in the meal instead of just going for the taste. The nutrient-rich diet will fuel your long days of journey and keep your immune system intact, which is one of the key factors to avoid altitude sickness.
Similarly, you will lose a significant level of body water level during the long days of walking. It is important to maintain that level and drink at least 2-3 liters during each day of the trek. This way, your energy level will be at optimum, and your body will have it easy acclimatizing to the new altitudes.
Pick the High Seasons
Generally, the high seasons, like autumn (September, October, and November) and spring (March, April, and May), offer the best window frame for the most immersive trekking and mountain-climbing adventures.
The climatic conditions are stable during these seasons, and you will be less likely to face itinerary plan delays or cancellations due to the weather in these seasons. As the skies are mostly clear, the views of the pristine Himalayas vistas will be something really remarkable in these high seasons.
Spring is generally known as nature’s peak season, and the entire landscape is covered with lush greenery. The colorful flowers along the trekking trails, especially the rhododendron flowers, make the visuals of your trekking route exceptionally vibrant.
Similarly, autumn is the driest season of the whole year, so you will have it easier while navigating along the high-altitude regions and the high Himalayan pass Kongma La Pass. Due to the low precipitation rate, the views of the pristine Himalayan vistas are also breathtaking.
Moreover, the autumn season is also known for its festive ambiance, which has more grandeur than other seasons throughout the year. This charming harvest season celebrates some of the colorful and fascinating festivals in this Himalayan country, like Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, Pachali Bhairab, and Mani Rimdu.
Temperatures in High Season
Temperatures of Pokalde Region During Spring Season: Averages between 17°C- 25°C
Temperatures of Pokalde Region During Autumn Season: Averages between 12°C- 17°C
Select the Right Expedition Package
While surfing the packages, it is important to understand the value of the packages and amenities-services inclusion rather than going for the face cost value. You can reduce the Pokalde Peak Climbing difficulty, if you select a package that provides you enough acclimatization period and takes you on a slow-paced journey rather than rushing the adventure.
Your enjoyability, safety, and comfort will entirely depend on the package that you choose for your iconic Himalayan expedition. We, here are Peak Climbing Nepal, offer the best value expedition package for your exciting journey.
Our 18 Day Pokalde Peak Climbing (Trek) is an immersive experience of the Himalayas where we will oversee all your itinerary plans from the day of arrival to your departure date. You can fulfill your Himalayan alpine journey without worrying about a thing as we take care of all the details, from the logistics to your safety and comfort. For booking and inquiries, you can get connected with us via our Contact Page.
Pack Right
During your Pokalde Peak Expedition, your journey will take you across diverse climatic regions. Thus, it is important to pack the right layer and helpful gear to tackle diverse climatic conditions, which will make your journey a more enjoyable experience. Similarly, if you are doing this adventure near the low seasons, you also need to be prepared for the unpredictable weather conditions at high altitudes.
The most efficient way to pack for this Himalayan expedition is to pack the essentials without going overboard on unnecessary luxury stuff. Peak Climbing Nepal will provide one porter for two climbers; the porter will carry 15kg worth of luggage for each climber.
You will have to carry the luggage over the weight limit by yourself or hire an additional porer for an extra cost. Here are some of our packing recommendations for the Pokalde Peak Climbing.
Head and Body
- Sun hat or sports hat
- Woolen hat and beanie
- Neck gaiter, cowl, or scarf
- Vest, sandow, or thermal
- Light t-shirts (half and full)
- Sweater and vest
- Breathable jacket or fleece jacket
- Waterproof/windproof shell jacket
- Down jacket
- Cotton pant
- Trekking shorts
- Lightweight and breathable trousers
- Waterproof/windproof trousers
- Heavy insulated or woolen trousers for high altitudes
- Several pairs of undergarments
- Light, woolen, and windproof/waterproof gloves
Feet
- Socks (light and insulated)
- Sports shoes or trainer shoes
- Trekking boots
- Camp shoes or sandals
- Ankle support
- Waterproof feet gaiter
Personal Hygiene
- Biodegradable soap and shampoo
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
- Sunscreen cream and body lotion
- Lip care
- Lightweight travel towel
- Tissue paper and toilet paper
- Wet wipes
- Perfume or deodorants
- Foot powder
- Bug repellent
- Sanitizer
- Water purification tablet/solution
- Small mirror
- Nail clipper
- Basic first aid kit
- Prescribed medications
Essentials/ Mountaineering Gear
- Crampons
- Ice axe
- Ascender
- Harness
- Snow Bar
- Climbing helmet
- Trekking pole
- Sleeping bag
- Backpack
- Duffle bag
- Rain cover
- Map, guidebook, and GPS device
- Thermos flask
- Resubale waterbottle
- Powerbank and solar charger
- Universal charging adapter
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Journal, magazine, and pen
**Note: Pokalde Peak is a non-technical trekking peak in Nepal, so you will not require an extensive set of mountaineering gear for this expedition**
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Additional Helpful Tips to Minimize Pokalde Peak Climbing Difficulty
- Trek slowly and take short breaks along the route to avoid exhaustion
- Do not rush the adventure, especially when you are rising to high-altitude points
- Carry energizing snacks, energy bars, and drinks to keep your energy bar on a full scale
- Familiarize yourself with the trekking and climbing route; learn to use basic navigating tools
- Even if you do not need mountaineering skills to do this expedition, if you are serious about a mountaineering career, you should learn them before this expedition
- Be mentally prepared for both remoteness and physical demand at the alpine slopes
- Learn basic snow and first aid skills
- Follow the instructions of the mountain guide and adhere to safety precautions
- Don’t drink cigarettes or drink alcohol at high altitudes, they affect acclimatization process
- Lastly, learn some basic phrases and enjoy the experience, we will take care of the rest
Prakash Devkota
Managing Director and Team Leader
Mr. Prakash Chandra Devkota is an established name in the Tourism Sector in Nepal. He is a focused individual gifted with a brilliant mind. He is also hugely dedicated to social work. Born in the Gorkha district, a beautiful hilly region of Nepal, he first entered the tourism industry as a guide in 1997. He has gained extensive experience in almost all the trekking and climbing routes like Mera, Island, Lobuche and, Ama Dablam, etc.
He registered Nepal Guides Treks & Expedition in 2009 AD. Due to his passion for adventure and efforts to provide quality personalized service to his clients, he has established himself as a successful tourism entrepreneur. He has dedicated most of his time working diligently to elevate the tourism industry and collected more than 15 years of experience in organizing trekking and expeditions in Nepal, Bhutan, and India. He believes in the power of the tourism industry and the employment opportunities that can be created through it. He constantly looks for innovative ways to run the company.
Mr. Devkota has always been an avid practitioner of eco-friendly tourism and has always promoted environmental conservation throughout his career. He motivates his staff to embrace eco-friendly tourism through responsible tourism practices. He believes promoting eco-tourism will preserve natural resources and positively impact the environment.
