Phari Lapcha: Geography and Name
Stands at 6,017 m (19,740 ft) in the Mahalangur range.
Forms part of the mountain chain running toward Machhermo.
Climbing History: First climbed legally in 2003 via its north-west face by a Brazilian-Nepali team.
Elevation
6,017 m
19,740 ft
Location
Solukhumbu District
Gokyo Region
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Mar–May / Sep–Nov
Standard Route
North Face / West Ridge
Nepal Side
The Wall Overlooking Machhermo
Phari Lapcha looms directly above the Machhermo settlement and the Renjo La Pass trail in the Gokyo region.
Its steep rock wall is an iconic landmark for trekkers heading toward Gokyo Lakes.
Key Highlights
- Dominates the skyline along the Renjo La trek route.
- Stunning perspective of Gokyo Lakes and Cho Oyu.
- Open for Category Group B peak climbing.
Quick Facts
First Ascent
2003
Parent Range
Mahalangur Himal, Himalayas
Coordinates
27.9000° N, 86.7000° E
Beyond the Basics
Phari Lapcha: Climbing & Trekking Guide
Route, acclimatisation and permit notes for Phari Lapcha from the Nepal Side side, plus practical safety advice.
Phari Lapcha: Climbing Routes
Routes involve mixed climbing over glacier moraine, ice faces, and sharp summit snow crests.
- Northwest Face: Sustained 50–60 degree ice slopes demanding solid crampon placement.
Phari Lapcha: Permits, Season and Safety
The standard season on Phari Lapcha is Spring & Autumn (Mar–May / Sep–Nov). Rockfall Caution: The lower approaches can feature loose rock; early morning starts are critical.
Approaches to Phari Lapcha begin from Nepal Side in Solukhumbu District, where the main objective is the North Face / West Ridge. Confirm current permit, insurance, and national park requirements before departure.
- Permits required: NMA Peak Permit.
- Best season: Spring (April-May) & Autumn (October-November).
- Elevation: 6,017 m (19,740 ft).
Phari Lapcha: Approach and Acclimatisation
Plan for road travel to the Nepal Side trailhead, then several days of walking before you reach the foot of Phari Lapcha. Gain height gradually, take a rest day before moving to high camp, and keep a spare weather day in reserve during Spring & Autumn.
Summit day on a 6,017 m objective is long, so start early and set a clear turn-around time. If the North Face / West Ridge is crowded or the snow is unstable, waiting a day is almost always better than pushing on.
Phari Lapcha: Facts and Figures
Phari Lapcha "The Peak of Gokyo Pass" stands at 6,017 m in Solukhumbu District, Gokyo Region. The figures below summarise the mountain for trip planning.
- First Ascent: 2003
- Parent Range: Mahalangur Himal, Himalayas
- Coordinates: 27.9000° N, 86.7000° E