Ice Col Adventure Trek

This is one of the wildest high mountain adventure treks that involve some rope climbing as well. It is a technical climb from Makalu Base Camp across Barun glacier and further to the Khumbu region of Nepal.

While crossing over the high passes of Sherpani/East Col (6,100m/20,014ft) and West Col (6,135m/20,129ft), it rewards with great views of some prominent peaks. The Ice Col adventure trek is a demanding Himalayan trek with spectacular views of the mountains above 8,000 meters.

They are namely Cho Oyu (8,201m/26,907ft), Lhotse (8,501m/27,890ft), Everest (8,848m/29,028ft), Makalu (8,463m/27,767ft) and Kanchenjunga (8,586m/28,170ft) en-route.

The trek has some steep slopes and good for only those with alpine experience and has high level of stamina. Since there are very few modern facilities, this trek requires a well-supported team with sensible equipment including ropes and ice-axe.

The trek connects with the Khumbu region at Chhukung crossing after the Amphu Lapcha pass (5,845m/19,177ft). The Amphu Lapcha (also referred to as the Amphu Labtsa) pass is one of the most dramatic crossings in the Himalaya having straightforward ice-fall.

The valley is high and open, fringed with broad moraines and sharp white peaks where the views of Chamlang (7,319m/24,013ft) and Baruntse (7,129m/23,390ft) are excellent. The Khumbu region has some pristine Sherpa villages and monasteries along the Everest Base Camp trail.

Namche Bazaar is the popular Sherpa hometown. There is a possibility of taking a side trip to the world famous Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar. The trek finally ends at Lukla.

The entire Makalu-Barun, Hinku (Honku) valley and Khumbu region has a unique landscape that shelters some of the rare species of animals and plants in Nepal.

Extension of Ice Col Adventure Trek

Island Peak climbing can also be combined with this trek.

Season for Ice Col Trek

The best season for Ice Col trek is from the beginning of April to end of May and from the beginning of September to mid November. The high passes remain closed during winter months. The weather must be favourable in order to complete this expedition and need proper outfits.

Participation Statement

Travellers should be fully aware of and accept the risks and be responsible for their own acts and involvement that ice climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are the activities with a danger of personal injury.

High Altitude Warning

Trekkers may feel altitude sickness on the 3 Cols trek that can affect even fit and healthy people. It is important to descend further to overcome the high altitude sickness. It starts with headache and there are other signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) to different persons; but includes fatigue, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, difficulty in walking and rattling breath.

We are very much concerned of your safety and our guides are aware of such situations how they should move forward. We recommend following the instructions of your leader and having patience until the further actions to be taken. They will be in touch with our Office in Kathmandu in the event of immediate rescue operation if the situation starts to get worse.

Experience Required

We have categorized Ice Col Adventure trek as hard trek and is appropriate for passionate trekkers ready to walk at least 5-7 hours each day. You might even need to walk 8 to 9 hours or more on some days. However, if you have enthusiasms and good health with average physical fitness, this trek can be completed successfully.

Previous rope climbing experience if any would be an additional asset. It is important that you consult with your doctor before making decision for this expedition for any past medical issues. Trekkers with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lungs or any other serious disease should inform Trekking Encounters before booking this trek.