A Harder Alternative to Island Peak
Lobuche East (6,119m) is tougher than Island Peak. It involves steeper climbing and more exposure. It is often used as a training peak for climbers preparing for a full Mount Everest expedition.
It sits right above the village of Lobuche on the main EBC trail. The approach is easy, but the climb is serious. It offers a direct view of the Mount Everest summit from the top.
You need to be comfortable with fixed lines and steep snow. The summit ridge is narrow and exposed. It provides a real taste of Himalayan mountaineering within a standard Everest trekking timeframe.
You sleep at High Camp near a glacial lake. The experience of sleeping in a tent at 5,400m prepares you for bigger mountains. It is a true expedition experience.
Lobuche East is the bridge between trekking and technical climbing. It commands respect.
