Kama Valley (Everest East Face)
嘎玛沟
The Everest East Face trekking route, often called one of the most beautiful valleys in the world, surrounded by forest, rhododendrons, and glaciers, with a direct view of the Kangshung Face of Everest.
Kama Valley lies south of Qudang Township (Kharta) in Tingri County. It is a glacial valley surrounded by Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Chomularikang Peak. In 1921, the British Everest reconnaissance expedition explored it, and it has been called “one of the most beautiful valleys in the world.” Unlike the barren north side, it has primeval forest, alpine lakes, rhododendron fields, and pastures, and at its end you face Everest’s East Face (Kangshung Face) directly. Treks usually start from Qudang and enter Kama Valley over Lamaraq Pass (about 5,300 m). The full route takes about 6 to 8 days and requires local guides, porters, yaks, and border and nature reserve permits. The trek is demanding, with no supply points along the way. It is only suitable for those with high-altitude trekking experience. The rainy season (July–August) brings poor trail conditions.
Opening hours
Hiking season (May–Jun, Sep–Oct)
Nearby sights
- Gawu La (Pang La) Viewpoint & 108 Bends
- Rongbuk Monastery
- Everest Base Camp (North)
- Shegar Chode Monastery
- Gyatso La Pass
- Old Tingri (Gangga) & Cho Oyu Viewpoint