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Pokalde Island and Lobuche Climbing

193 reviews in TripAdvisor
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Trip Facts
Duration
25 Days
Trip Grade
PD to AD
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
6,189 m
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Group Size
2 / 20 PAX
Activities
Trekking Peak
Best Time
Spring and Autumn

Pokalde Island and Lobuche Climbing

To stand at the apex of a mountain is the ultimate goal and the greatest experience for a mountaineer. It is what only very few people can embrace, those those who dare to seek out thrill and adventure. Furthermore, experiencing multiple victorious peak top moments in a single adventure is like reaching a whole new level of exhilaration, personal growth and satisfaction to cherish for a lifetime.

The Pokalde Island and Lobuche are the three popular trekking peaks in the Khumbu region. This three peak expedition guides you to the summits of Pokalde (5,806 meters/ 19,048 feet)Island (6,189 meters/ 20,305 feet) and Lobuche (6,119 meters/ 20,075 feet). While climbing each of these peaks separately is not very difficult the combined journey overall can be a bit strenuous and challenging.

The three peak journey of Island Pokalde and Lobuche offers an adventurous trekking and climbing experience in the world renowned Everest region. Each of these mountains are ideal introduction for aspiring climbers with awe inspiring views and accessible challenges. The climb of these mounatins is possible for first time mountaineers without prior mountaineering experience. This expedition will give you enough climbing experience as well as prepare you for other challenging future climbs.

Difficulties of Island Pokalde and Lobuche Climbing

The climb of each Island Pokalde and Lobuche Peak is considered moderately difficult. However, climbing all three peaks one after another in a single go is a bit more challenging testing your physical endurance and mental resilience to the core.

This high Himalayan adventure is lengthy lasting around 18 to 25 days. Likewise, on average, you should plan to walk for about 6 to 7 hours each day to cover the daily trekking distance. Additionally, the walk can be quite challenging with several steep ascents and descents. So, the consecutive trekking days and long trek hours on rugged mountain routes are the primary difficulty of this Himalayan adventure.

Trekking through rugged and untamed mountain trails is physically challenging. So, it is essential to pace in a relaxed way to avoid overexertion and fatigue and maximize performance. Likewise, you can take small breaks in between the journey to rest and enjoy energy snacks.

Being physically fit greatly reduces the overall difficulty of any demanding high altitude adventure. You can incorporate cardiovascular workouts, strength exercises and altitude training to upgrade yourself physically. Additionally, you can practice hiking with a weighted backpack on local trails to enhance your balance and stability during the walks on uneven mountain terrain.

While  Island Pokalde and Lobuche peaks do not involve extensive technical routes you need to know how to use basic mountaineering tools like ice axes, crampons and harnesses. This equipment is essential for navigating the few semi technical sections of the climb, like vertical walls, glaciers, steep ice, snow slopes, etc.

Like other mountain adventures this journey involves challenges such as remoteness, limited facilities, unpredictable weather and high altitudes. However, these challenges can be reduced through careful planning, proper preparation and appropriate packing.

Related Peak Climbing Packages ( Multiple Peaks):

Tharpu Chuli and Singu Chuli Island Lobuche & Kyajo Ri | Mera Island & Lobuche Peak Climbing

Pokalde Island and Lobuche Climbing Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival at Kathmandu [1,345 m/ 4,411 ft] and Transfer to the Hotel.

After you land at the runway of the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will find our official waiting for you at the arrival gate. He will welcome you warmly before driving you to your designated hotel in one of the major cities in Kathmandu.

He will also assist you with hotel check in. You can refresh and rest for a while to recover from a long flight and recharge for your upcoming schedules. Afterward, you can join our welcome dinner party to celebrate the start of our adventurous mountain endeavor.

Once the party is over, we will drive you back to your hotel, where you will spend your first night of the journey.

Day 2

Sightseeing and Climbing Preparation Day in Kathmandu

After breakfast in the hotel, be ready to set off for sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley. Today, we will visit some of the popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Durbar Squares (Patan, Basantapur and Bhaktapur).

After finishing the excursion, we will return to the Peak Climbing Nepal office and your guide will provide details of the forthcoming adventure. Then you can return to your hotel for rest, meal and last minute preparation. If you have something to buy for the expedition, you can visit popular marketplaces like Thamel, New Road, etc. Here, you will find everything essential for your mountain journey.

Day 3

Fly From Kathmandu to Lukla [2,800 m/ 9,184 ft] and Trek to Phakding [2,640 m/ 8,659 ft]

Flight Duration: 40 to 45 minutes

Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Distance Covered During Trek: 9 kilometers

After being all set to embark on the expedition to Pokalde, Lobuche and Island Peak, we will board a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. This picturesque flight will treat you to the rewarding vistas of valleys, hills, rivers and mountains below. After landing at Lukla (the threshold of the Everest region), we will meet porters and enjoy a delicious lunch before setting off on the trail.

From the starting point of our trek (Lukla) we will head towards the destination of the day, Phakding. We will follow downhill trails through the woods of colorful rhododendron trees. Then the trails will lead us alongside the sandy banks of the Dudh Koshi River. Crossing this river via a suspension bridge, we will trek forward. Ghat, Chheplung, etc are the villages that are passed during the walk. Finally, we will arrive at the scenic Phakding village beside a river.

Day 4

Trek From Phakding to Namche Bazaar [3,440 m/ 11,283 ft]

Trek Duration: 6 hours

Distance Covered: 9 kilometers

We will begin to head towards Namche Bazaar, which is a bustling tourist hub in the Everest region. Following the Dudh Koshi Riverbed, we will come out of Phkading and navigate this river through several suspension bridges. One of them is a well known Hillary Suspension Bridge.

The stunning views of Thamserku make the trek fascinating. Afterward we will traverse quaint villages like Benkar and Chumoa and eventually reach Sagarmatha National Park gate at Monjo. Once the park officials check and register our permits we will trek across the abundant ecosystem of this protected area.

Finally, the uphill route through pine forests to Namche Hill and a gradual descent from there will take us to Namche Bazaar. You can see the incredible view of the majestic Everest from this charming village.

Day 5

Acclimatizing at Namche Bazaar

We are over 3,000 meters in elevation and it is crucial to acclimate to avoid altitude sickness. So, we will spend a day at Namche Bazaar resting as well as exploring its surrounding areas through short acclimatization walks.

You can either stay at the teahouse relaxing or explore the houses, cafes and restaurants of this vibrant town. After lunch you can consider visiting the popular places in Namche Bazaar, like  Hotel Everest View, Hillary School, Khunde Hospital, Namche Monastery, Sherpa Culture Museum, etc.

We wil return to the teahouse by evening time and stay for the night.

Day 6

Trekking From Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche [3,867 m/ 12,683 ft]

Trek Duration: 5 hours

Distance Covered: 10 kilometers

The Namche Bazar to Tyangboche trek starts by descending across the Dudh Koshi River banks and crossing it. Then, we will slowly ascend through the forest of vibrant rhododendrons and pine trees.

Some ups and downs on the mountainous routes will traverse us through the traditional villages of Sanasa and Phunki Tenga. The spectacular views of the towering Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Thamserku will add energy to your walk. Finally, a hilltop Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the entire Khumbu Valley, comes into view. After reaching Tyangboche, you can visit this historical monastery to immerse yourself in its spiritual atmosphere and gratifying Himalayan views seen from there.

Day 7

Trek From Tyangboche to Dingboche [4,260 m/ 13,972 ft]

Trek Duration: 5 hours

Distance Covered: 10 kilometers

The Namche Bazar to Tyangboche trek starts by descending across the Dudh Koshi River banks and crossing it. Then, we will slowly ascend through the forest of vibrant rhododendrons and pine trees.

Some ups and downs on the mountainous routes will traverse us through the traditional villages of Sanasa and Phunki Tenga. The spectacular views of the towering Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Thamserku will add energy to your walk. Finally, a hilltop Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the entire Khumbu Valley, comes into view. After reaching Tyangboche, you can visit this historical monastery to immerse yourself in its spiritual atmosphere and gratifying Himalayan views seen from there.

Day 8

Trek From Dingboche to Pokalde Peak Base Camp [4,900 m/ 16,072 ft]

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Distance Covered: 6 to 8 kilometers

From Dingboche, we will begin our ascent to the first peak among the three: Pokalde Peak. So, we will head towards its base camp.

The trails to the Pokalde Peak Base Camp wind through rugged terrain and alpine meadows. The captivating backdrop of Ama Dablam, Lhotse and many other surrounding mountains during the trek is rewarding.

After several ascends and descends we will reach our campsite, which will be near the massive lake ust beneath Kongma La Pass. Our expert expedition crew will set up the tented camps, and the kitchen staff will cook fresh meals for staying overnight at Pokalde Base Camp.

Day 9

Trek From Pokalde Peak Base Camp to High Camp [5,400 m/ 17,712 ft]

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Distance Covered: 3 to 4 kilometers

We will begin to ascend from Pokalde Base Camp to High Camp. The trails are rough and sloppy, which require careful footing. We will continue to ascend, being surrounded by the breathtaking views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Cholatse and others. You can also see the enhancing frozen lake below at the expansive basin.

Finally, we will arrive at the Pokalde High Camp and spend a night for the adventurous climb of Pokalde Peak the next day.

Day 10

Ascend From High Camp to Pokalde Peak [5,806 m/ 19,048 ft] and Decend to Chhukung [4,730 m/ 15,518 ft]

Total Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Distance Covered: 10 to 12 kilometers

We will start to scale the Pokalde Peak in the early morning to skip the potential afternoon high winds. While the climb is not technical, the peak is quite vertical. So, our Sherpa guide will fix ropes for you to move upward. The tough climb through narrow and icy mountain slopes will finally take you to the summit of this magnificent mountain.

After enjoying the panoramic views from the top, we will start to descend. Retracting our footsteps through the same routes, we will pass through the high camp and get back to Pokalde Base Camp.

From there, we will trek towards Chhukung, along the left of the Imja River. After reaching the destination, you can enjoy much deserved rest and sleep.

Day 11

Trek From Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp [5,087 m/ 16,685 ft]

Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Distance Covered: 6 to 7 kilometers

Today, we will head from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp to climb this mountain. Leaving Chhukung behind, we will walk over the steep trails leading to the main trekking route along the southern ridge of the Lhotse Glacier.

Moving further, we will pass alongside a glaciated stream and navigate a cross section of the Imja Glacier and Lhotse Glacier. Slowly, the routes open up to a wide, flat area of the Island Peak Base Camp. As there are no tea houses available here, we will set up a campsite for an overnight stay.

Day 12

Scale Island Peak [6,189 meters/ 20,305 feet] and Return to Base Camp

Total Duration: 10 to 12 hours

Distance Covered: 9 to 11 kilometers

Similar to Pokalde Peak, we will begin the ascent of Island Peak right before dawn to make the most out of the better climbing conditions. The climb through steep snow trails for the first few hours will take you to the high camp of Island Peak.

Continuing further with the use of basic climbing tools like crampons, ice axes, ropes, etc you will navigate a crevassed glacier and ice ridges to reach the Island Peak summit. After taking in the magnificent Himalayan panorama from the top, we will climb down to the base camp.

The schedule of events will conclude at Island Base Camp, where we will call it a day.

Day 13

Trek Down From Island Peak Base Camp to Dingboche [4,260 m/ 13,972 ft]

Trek Duration: 4 to 6 hours

Distance Covered: 10 to 12 kilometers

After waking up at the Island Peak Base Camp we will clean the surrounding area and pack our belongings to head towards Dingboche.

We will descend through the snowy trails and moraine fields on the way toward Dingboche. After several hours of walking, we will finally reach our destination for an overnight stay.

Day 14

Trekking From Dingboche to Lobuche [4,930 m 16,170 ft]

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Distance Covered: 9 to 10 kilometers

We will leave Dingboche and head for Lobuche, following the uphill routes. On the way the charming settlements of Phulung Karpo, Dusa and Dughla are encountered, where you can glimpse the local culture and way of life of the natives. Thukla Pass, a memorial viewpoint honoring those who lost their lives during their attempts to climb Everest, is in between the journey.

The trails become narrow and steep as you walk further. There is a small wooden bridge to cross over a glaciated stream along the way. Likewise, you will walk past the lateral moraines of the Khumbu Glacier. Moving forward with the enthralling views of the Lingtren, Pumori, Khumbuste and other surrounding peaks at the backdrop will finally take us to Lobuche.

Day 15

Trek From Lobuche to Gorakshep [5,164 m/16,942 ft]. Trek to Everest Base Camp [5,364 m/17,598 ft] and Return Back to Gorakshep

Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

Distance Covered: 13 to 15 kilometers

Waking up in the early morning, we will set off towards our exciting and rewarding journey of reaching the Everest Base Camp. The trails onward are more remote, rugged, secluded and pristine.

Walking on the barren and rocky terrains with scattered shrubs, we will reach a small settlement of Gorak Shep. It is the last village in the Everest region and we stay here for a brief time to enjoy lunch before continuing further.

We will reach the iconic Everest Base Camp, traversing moraine fields and Khumbu Glacier. It is the closest you can ever get to Everest. The up close views of the Everest, Khumbu Icefall and neighboring peaks from the base camp are incredible. Afterward, we will retrace our footsteps back to Gorakshep to stay for the night.

Day 16

Morning Hike From Gorakshep to Kala Patthar [5,545 m/ 18,187 ft] and Trek Back to Lobuche [4,930 m/ 16,170 ft]

Trek Duration: 6 to 8 hours

Distance Covered: 10 to 12  kilometers

Waking up in Gorakshep before dawn, we will begin to scale the alpine viewpoint of Kalapatthar to enjoy a hypnotic sunrise over the Himalayas. The trail toward Kalapatthar is a mix of rock, ice and snow. 

After reaching the top of this popular Everest region vantage point, you can soak up the impressive panorama of the snow covered mountains and golden sunrise illuminating them. Afterward, we will retrace back to the Gorakshep.

In Gorakshep, we will enjoy lunch before heading towards Lobuche. We will take the same route as we took earlier to trek between Gorakshep and Lobuche.

Day 17

Trek From Lobuche to Lobuche Peak Base Camp [4,950 m/ 16,240 ft]

Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Distance Covered: 6 to 8 kilometers 

Today, we will make our move toward the final mountain of this three peak adventure. Leaving Lobuche village behind, we will traverse a mix of plain and rocky trails towards the Lobuche Peak Base Camp. 

We will spend a night in the tranquil ambiance of the base camp encircled by the towing Himalayas. 

Day 18

Trek From Lobuche Peak Base Camp to High Camp [5,400 m/ 17,712 ft]

Trek Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Distance Covered: 3 to 4 kilometers

Today’s day of walking is for a short period of time. We will set off on the trail after a delicious breakfast.

The routes to the high camp of Lobuche Peak are covered with snow. Likewise, there are several rocky moraines that you have to navigate.

Take a slow and relaxed pace and make sure that you are well hydrated. After overcoming some twists and turns on the ascending routes, you will finally reach the Lobuche High Camp. You can spend the rest of your time preparing for the accent of this mountain.

Day 19

Climb Lobuche Peak [6,119 meters/ 20,075 feet] and Descend to High Camp

Total Duration: 8 to 10 hours

Distance Covered: 4 to 6 kilometers

Starting early, we will begin to scramble over rocky routes above the glacier and climb the ridge leading towards the summit of Lobuche. You will use ropes, ice axes, crampons and harnesses to pass through the semi technical slopes of Lobuche.

Take a moment to celebrate the victory of successfully conquering all three peaks, Island, Pokalde and Lobuche. Likewise, enjoy the expansive panorama of the entire Khumbu mountains from the summit of Lobuche before descending back to its high camp.

Day 20

Trek From Lobuche Peak Base Camp to Pangboche [3,985 m/ 12,982 ft]

Trek Duration: 5 to 7 hours

Distance Covered: 10 to 12 kilometers

We have completed the climb of all three peaks and our return journey begins now. We will depart from Lobuche Peak Base Camp and move towards Pangboche.

The trails initially wind through the moraine fields and rocky ridges. Gradually, we will venture alongside the sloppy terrains and walk past the foothills of gigantic Ama Dablam. After around 2 hours of walking, we will reach Dingboche.

Continuing further, we will gradually descend on well marked routes through terraced fields and several Sherpa villages. Finally, we will arrive at Pangboche, traversing the lush forests of rhododendrons and juniper trees.

Day 21

Trek From Pangboche to Namche Bazaar

Trek Duration: 6 to 8 hours

Distance Covered: around 15 kilometers

Our return trek continues. Today, we will head from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar. Initially we will descend slightly through a vibrant pine forest enjoying the surreal views of Ama Dablam at the backdrop. Then, we will cross the suspension bridge spanning over the gushing Dudh Koshi River.

We will continue to retrace our footsteps passing through villages like Tyangboche, Phunki Thenga, Sansa etc and finally re enter the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar.

Day 22

Trek From Namche Bazaar to Lukla [3,440 m/ 11,283 ft]

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Distance Covered: 15 to 18 kilometers

Today is our final day on the trail as we will reach the end point of our trek. It will be a moderate downhill journey towards our way back to the Dudh Koshi Valley. We will make our way back to Lukla, retracing our steps through Sherpa villages such as Phadking, Toktok, Chheplung etc.

Day 23

Fly Back to Kathmandu From Lukla [2,800 m/ 9,184 ft]

Flight Duration: 40 to 45 minutes

We will bid farewell to the Himalayan region and reach the Lukla Airport to board an early morning flight back to the capital. You will experience the excitement and rewards of the flight between Lukla and Kathmandu one more time.

After you land at the Kathmandu Airport we will drive you and drop you off at your hotel. You can enjoy the remaining day the way you like.

Day 24

Spend a Leisure Day at Kathmandu [1,345 m/ 4,411 ft]

You will have an extra day in Kathmandu, which you can spend exploring the sites that were not covered during the second sightseeing day. Consider visiting the vibrant marketplaces of the city to shop for souvenirs back home. You can also buy some gifts for your beloved friends and family members.

In the evening, do not forget to join our farewell dinner, which marks the successful completion and celebration of our mountain adventure.

Day 25

Departure Day Transfer to Airport

Stay ready at your hotel for the airport transfer. Our airport representative staff will come to pick you up according to your flight schedule. He will drop you off at the airport for your international departure an hour or two earlier.  This will allow you time to complete check in, security procedures and other formalities and board a flight without any rush.

Thank you for choosing us as your travel partner. Let’s meet again soon for the next adventure.

Cost Details

What’s Included

  • Nights stay in Kathmandu with BB Plan
  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight
  • All ground transportation by private vehicle including airport arrival and departure transfer
  • Climbing Permits for Pokalde, Island and Lobuche – 3 Peaks
  • Required Trekking permits and national park fees
  • Tea House + Camping combined accommodation during the trek and Climb – as per itinerary
  • All meals during trek & climb– Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Experienced trekking & climbing guide
  • Required number of porters
  • Necessary climbing gears
  • Kitchen equipment and camping equipment during the climbing period
  • General first aid kits
  • Insurance, clothing and salary for staffs’
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • All government taxes and necessary paperwork

What’s Excluded

  • Personal climbing gears
  • Your Personal Insurance
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Cost of personal nature expenses
  • Tips for staffs

Private Trip

Fixed Departure is for joining pre-scheduled group departures.

Private Trip is for personalized experiences.

Equipment Lists for Pokalde Island and Lobuche Climbing

Explore our complete packing list for 6000m and 6500m peaks of Nepal. We’ve also detailed the gear provided by our company, along with items available for hire.

Essential Information

Altitude Sickness During the Climb of Pokalde Island and Lobuche Peak

Yes, there is a possibility of altitude sickness during the high altitude climb of Pokalde, Island and Lobuche peaks. All three mountains are at significant elevations, with Pokalde Peak (5,806 meters), Island Peak (6,189 meters) and Lobuche Peak (6,119 meters). Gorakshep (5,164 m),  Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) are other alpine altitude points that you will reach during this journey.

At these elevated regions, the air is thinner and has low oxygen levels. While the symptoms of altitude sickness usually appear after crossing 2,500 meters, climbers on the alpine adventure of Island, Pokalde and Lobuche are at high risk of altitude sickness.

Symptoms and Preventive Measures of Altitude Sickness

SYMPTOMS

  • Lightheadedness
  • Headache
  • Sleeplessness
  • Nauseating
  • Vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Quick heartbeat
  • Breathlessness

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

  • Maintain proper hydration by drinking water, juices and other healthy beverages. Consuming at least 4 liters of water on a daily basis is strongly recommended to avoid dehydration.
  • Eat fresh, healthy and nutritious foods. Avoid packaged meals and non veg items.
  • Take a slow pace and incorporate frequent rest breaks to provide enough time for your body to acclimatize (adjusting to new altitude).
  • Avoid smoking and alcoholic drinks, as they can lead to dehydration and increase the risk of altitude sickness.
  • Get plenty of rest and sleep. Do not rely on sleeping pills for napping.
  • Intake of a diamox pill and other altitude medications as a preventive solution.

Food and Accomodation

The food and accommodation during the Pokalde Island and Lobuche Peak trekking phase are provided by the traditional teahouses along the way. While the amenities are basic you can expect comfortable beds and decent meals in teahouses. There will be clean spaces with fresh and nourishing meals, usually consisting of a mix of local and continental cuisines.

The teahouse menu includes a variety of veg and non veg food options. Likewise, you can place a special order for food based on taste, preferences or a specific diet. The breakfast, lunch and dinner items that are generally available in teahouses are:

BREAKFAST

  • Tea and coffee
  • Juices
  • Soups
  • Jam/butter bread
  • Pasta
  • Oats/cornflakes with milk
  • Muesli
  • Eggs
  • Pancakes
  • Noodles

LUNCH AND DINNER 

  • Dal Bhat Tarkari Achar (rice, lentils, vegetable curries and pickles)
  • Momo
  • Chowmein
  • Flatbreads
  • Dhindo and Gundruk
  • Steaks
  • Sandwiches
  • Thukpa
  • Porridge

The teahouse room typically consists of two to three beds. Similarly, toilets (mostly traditional squat types), bathrooms and dining halls are all available for shared purposes. While the availability and facilities of a teahouse decline as you ascend to higher elevations, their costs increase. Likewise, for advanced services like hot showers, electronic charging, WiFi, etc, you have to pay an extra amount.

During the climbing phase of the three peaks, you will be in inhabited areas and spend nights in tented camps. We will provide you with roomy tents, cushioned sleeping mats, warm sleeping bags and puffy pillows. Likewise, the food here will be fresh and well cooked by our kitchen staff.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Fitness and Experience
Which Among Three Peaks Island Pokalde and Lobuche is Difficult to Climb?

Pokalde is regarded as the easiest among the three peaks. On the other hand, Island Peak presents a slightly more challenge than Pokalde. Lastly, Lobuche is taken as the most challenging peak of the trio.

How Fit Should I Be for Climbing Island Pokalde and Lobuche at One Go?

Climbing Island Peak, Pokalde and Lobuche in a single expedition requires a solid fitness level. A considerable level of fitness with proper strength, stamina and endurance is necessary to handle this long duration high altitude journey through variable mountain terrain. Besides, you should not have any critical health issues to ensure you can actively participate and enjoy the adventure.

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