Kala Patthar | |
---|---|
Highest point | |
Elevation | 5,644.5 m (18,519 ft) |
Coordinates | 27°59.750′N 86°49.705′E / 27.995833°N 86.828417°E |
Geography | |
Location | Khumbu, Nepal |
Parent range | Khumbu Himal |
Climbing | |
Easiest route | Hike / scramble from Gorakshep |
Kala Patthar (Nepali: काला पत्थर, lit. 'black rock') is a notable landmark located on the south ridge of Pumori in the Nepali Himalayas above Gorakshep. Although not a proper mountain, with a prominence of only 10 m (33 ft),[1] the ascent of Kala Patthar is very popular with trekkers in the region of Mount Everest since it provides the most accessible closeup view of Everest. Due to the structure of the Everest Massif, its high summit is blocked by Nuptse from much of the surrounding region.
The views of Everest, Nuptse and Changtse are spectacular from Kala Patthar and there are glimpses of the northern flank and summit of Lhotse. The world's highest webcam, Mount Everest webcam, was located here. Kala Patthar is considered the highest altitude most will reach without a climbing permit, which must be obtained in Kathmandu, at the Nepal Mountaineering Association.[2]