The Ice Col Trek - World's Most Difficult Trek

Overview

The Ice Col Trek is a truly adventurous expedition to a remote and wild region of the Great Himalayas in Nepal, with full logistic support - this is a journey that seeks a different route, a fresh perspective, a challenge.
 
Our route traverses a spectacular, seldom visited region of Nepal and crosses three High Mountain passes. Only on the very final section does it meet the popular southern approach to Everest Base Camp at Chhukung. The rare views, some of which will be ours alone, are quite the most breathtaking in the whole Himalayan range: sublime vistas in which are amplified the power of three of the World’s five highest mountains: Makalu, Kangchenjunga and Everest. Here too you are offered the satisfaction of absorbing at first hand the culture and folklore of tribal hill and mountain peoples and the flora and fauna of remote Eastern Nepal and the dates selected should ensure some of the best weather and panoramic views. 

From Kathmandu we take a one hour flight east to Tumlingtar during the flight we have fantastic views of the majestic Himalayas. Beyond here our trekking route follows a great area, rising north onto the ridges of Num and sweeping slowly westwards into the uninhabited heartland of the World's most spectacular mountains and passes.
 
On the map, you can follow our journey as it emerges out of tranquil pastures and ascends the hidden Arun River valley. Climbing and descending gradually, taking us from villages at 457m to the Khongma Pass at 3090m, this trail gives us the best possible form of acclimatisation. Beyond Num there are no villages. The track climbs all the way to Neghe Kharka, crossing the Barun Khola flowing from Makalu. The route to Sherpani Col (6135m) involves a sustained period at altitude with some steep slopes, but rewards us with powerful views of Makalu (8463m) to the north and the aptly named Island Peak (6160m) to the west. This is the realm of the glaciers, surrounded by the unforgettable presence of the World's mightiest mountains; and brooding above the towering bulk of Everest itself.
 
The trail heads towards the setting sun, mounting West Col and crossing the wide Hongu glacier. In a long day it climbs easily to the Amphu Lapcha pass, descends to skirt under Amphu peak (5335m) and, with the elegant cones of Island Peak dead ahead, serves to gain the wide Imja glacier and relax on its westerly descent to the village of Chhukhung.
 
This first Sherpa habitation, nestled at 4730m above the junction of five major glacial valleys, is a typical low walled grey stone village, coloured with traditional Sherpa smiles. Tumbling into the Khumbu valley, heartland of the Sherpa people, and past the relative metropolis of Dingboche, we make for Pheriche (4252m). The village is perched above the Dudh Kosi, or river of milk, which drains the western flanks of Mt. Everest, and is guarded by the dramatic twin shoulders of Ama Dablam (6856m).
 
Below, the Khumbu iceflow pushes out of the Western Cwm and, swallowing up another four glaciers, slowly grinds its way toward the Ganges. Our route picks its way through the moraine, to the last huts of Lobuche and, with our prior level of acclimatisation; we should probably take the altitude in our stride.
 
The route home is a very pleasurable, re-entry to the calm valleys and rhododendron forests. We call at Tengboche monastery and visit Namche Bazaar as we trek onward down the valley to our aircraft at Lukla. The flight home to Kathmandu surpasses the flight out. It is as if mountains march westward beside us until waves of gentle terraced hills raise up to guide us back into the modern world.

Expeditions and Trekking Peaks

All our expeditions and trekking peaks are supported by satellite phone, walkie-talkie, support oxygen (when required), Portable Altitude Chamber and comprehensive first aid medical kit. We only use top quality expedition tents manufactured in Europe.

High Altitude Warning

Safety is a major consideration during all our expeditions however there are dangers involved in climbing 6000m, 7000m and 8000m peaks that cannot be avoided. The extreme altitude, weather, cold and other mountaineering hazards ensure high altitude climbing has unavoidable risks at the best of times, members of our expeditions need to be aware of these dangers and accept that they are an integral part of high altitude mountaineering.

Experience Required

Remote trekking or mountaineering experience to 5000m is required plus some snow and ice climbing experience and a knowledge and aptitude for abseiling / rappling. Ice axe and crampon experience is necessary. The grade is 2B. Our Scottish weekend meets will provide you with comprehensive preparations.

Expedition Classification 

click here to download The Ice Col Trek full itinerary     

Outline Itinerary

Personal Equipment

Please find out more about our comprehensive Equipment Hire Service.

To join a Ice Col expedition you need the following specialist equipment: 

• Ice Axe
• Crampons
• Harness
• 2 x Tape slings
• 2 x Screwgate Karabiners
• Descender / Abseil Device
• Ascender (e.g. Jumar)
• Prussic Loops
• Plastic mountaineering boots with Neoprene Overgaiters or 'System' boots (for example, La Sportiva Olympus Mons)
• 5 Season Sleeping Bag.

All other equipment is as is needed on a normal high altitude trek. A complete climbing equipment and clothing list is included in the expedition pack, which is sent to you on booking along with details of our Equipment Hire Service.

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You must have adequate insurance for this type of trek. Click here