Kala Patthar, "black rock", is a brown hill on the flank of Pumori above Gorak Shep. Its summit, at about 5,545 m, is the highest point of the Everest Base Camp trek and gives the best close-up view of Mount Everest, along with Nuptse, Lhotse, the Khumbu Glacier and the base camp area below.
Quick answer: Kala Patthar (about 5,545 m) is a 1.5–2 hour climb from Gorak Shep. Go for sunrise (clear skies, very cold) or sunset (golden light on Everest). It is part of the Everest Base Camp trek.
Kala Patthar at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Altitude | About 5,545 m |
| Start | Gorak Shep, 5,164 m |
| Climb | 1.5–2 hours up |
| Views | Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Khumbu Glacier |
| Trek | Everest Base Camp |
Sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise usually brings the clearest skies but extreme cold. Sunset lights up the face of Everest, though cloud is more likely. Your guide will choose based on conditions and how the group is feeling.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Kala Patthar is the high point, literally, of the EBC trek. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.