The Chhukung to Lobuche section of the Everest Base Camp trek runs from about 4,730 m to about 4,910 m. Typical time is 6 to 8 hours via Dingboche and Dughla, rated hard. That is a net gain of roughly 180 m, with a long way round.
Quick facts
- Start: Chhukung, about 4,730 m
- End: Lobuche, about 4,910 m
- Change: a net gain of roughly 180 m, with a long way round
- Typical time: 6 to 8 hours via Dingboche and Dughla
- Difficulty: Hard
The route
The usual way is back down to Dingboche, then up the valley to Dughla and the moraine climb to Lobuche. The shorter Kongma La route is a high pass crossing, covered in the Three Passes trek.
Altitude and health
Part of this section is at or above 3,000 m, so altitude sickness is possible. Walk slowly, drink water, avoid alcohol and tell your guide about headaches, nausea or poor sleep. Descend if symptoms worsen. Altitudes vary by a few tens of metres between maps and guidebooks.
Tips
Do not treat the pass route as a shortcut. It involves a 5,500 m crossing and is only for prepared trekkers. See the Three Passes guides.
Common questions
- Is there a direct way from Chhukung to Lobuche? Yes, over Kongma La, but it is a demanding high pass.
- How long is the normal route? A full day, since it goes through Dingboche and Dughla.
Reverse direction
Walking Lobuche to Chhukung is the same trail in reverse. It is usually quicker because it is mostly downhill, but a long descent is hard on the knees, so poles help.
Nearby legs on this route
- Deboche to Pangboche
- Pangboche to Dingboche
- Dingboche to Chhukung
- Dingboche to Lobuche
- Lobuche to Gorak Shep
- Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp
Plan it
Back to all route information or see the Everest Base Camp trek guides.
