Lhotse Expedition

Lhotse, the fourth tallest mountain in the world, is most recognized for its close proximity to Mount Everest. Climbers on Everest’s standard route often pass along Lhotse’s northwest face. Despite its impressive height, Lhotse has one of the lowest topographic prominence values among the eight-thousanders, rising just 610 meters above the South Col. This has led to its frequent classification as a lesser peak in the eight-thousander group. The Lhotse East or Middle summit (8,414m) lies on the ridge connecting the main summit of Lhotse (8,516m) and Lhotse Shar (8,400m). Due to extremely steep terrain and rugged ridges, direct ascents to Lhotse East are nearly impossible. Climbers must first summit either the main Lhotse peak or Lhotse Shar before traversing a challenging, 1,000-meter ridge to reach this third summit.