Shartse II, affectionately known as Junction II, is a breathtaking peak in the Mahalangur range of the Nepalese Himalayas. Nestled between the Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts in Eastern Nepal, this impressive mountain is part of the Khumbu range and falls under the governance of Makalu and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipalities.
Towering at an elevation of 7,457 meters (24,472 feet), Shartse II's coordinates are 27°56'57" latitude and 86°59'07" longitude. Open for climbing, the peak has been a sought-after destination for mountaineers since its first successful ascent by Kurt Diemburger and Hermann Warth on May 23, 1974.
To reach Shartse II, adventurers start with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. From there, they follow a caravan route that winds through Lukla, Namche, Khumjung, Dingboche, Chukung, and ultimately reaches the base camp. This scenic trek stretches around 97.3 kilometers in total. Climbers then face a challenging 9-kilometer ascent from base camp to reach the summit. The entire adventure typically takes 42 days to complete.
Royalty fees for climbing Shartse II depend on both climbers' nationality and the time of year. For Nepalese climbers, fees are as follows: NPR 6,000 for spring climbs; NPR 3,000 in autumn; and NPR 1,500 during winter/summer seasons. Foreign climbers face USD 500 fees in spring; USD 250 in autumn; and USD 125 during winter/summer seasons.
In case of emergencies, Murmi Danda is the closest health center at a distance of 52.3 kilometers from the base camp along the caravan route. The nearest inhabited area is Sadema, which is 45 kilometers away.
All climbers are strongly encouraged to take necessary safety measures and adhere to guidelines and regulations established by local authorities and the Nepal Government to ensure a safe and triumphant expedition.