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Island Peak Climbing

Island Peak Climbing

Trip Features

Duration 16
Elevation 6160
Best Season Spring, Autumn
Transportation Overland, Flight
Min. Group Size 1
Trip Type Trekking and Climbing Adventure

Overview

The Island Peak (6,189 meters / 20,305 feet), also known as Imja Tse, is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal. Located in the Everest region, it provides an excellent introduction to high-altitude mountaineering and is a favorite among trekkers seeking to scale a Himalayan peak. The peak offers a challenging yet achievable climb, with rewarding views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. This article delves into the key aspects of Island Peak climbing, including its overview, highlights, itinerary, cost, best time to visit, difficulty level, and permit requirements.

Island Peak Climbing: A Comprehensive Guide

Island Peak is a stunning peak located in the Everest region of Nepal. It is often chosen by trekkers who have already completed the Everest Base Camp trek and wish to take on their first Himalayan climb. The peak’s name derives from its appearance—standing like an island in a sea of ice when viewed from Dingboche or other points along the trekking route.

The climb is non-technical but involves basic mountaineering skills such as using crampons, ice axes, and rope. The route to the summit includes navigating a glacier, a steep face of snow and rock, and a narrow ridge to the final summit.

Island Peak climbing offers a sense of accomplishment as climbers summit a peak over 6,000 meters, without the extreme technical difficulty associated with larger peaks like Everest or Makalu. However, it still demands careful preparation and the ability to cope with high altitudes, especially on summit day.

Highlights of Island Peak Climbing

  1. Scenic Everest Region: The journey begins from Lukla, with a trek through the lush Khumbu Valley. Trekkers will pass through charming Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, while being surrounded by views of towering Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

  2. Island Peak Summit: The summit of Island Peak offers panoramic views of the entire Everest region. From the top, you can see peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, among others.

  3. Trekking to Everest Base Camp: The trek leading up to Island Peak is an extension of the Everest Base Camp trek, which is famous for its breathtaking views of the Khumbu Icefall, the massive glaciers, and the towering peaks surrounding the base camp.

  4. High-altitude experience: Island Peak provides trekkers with the chance to experience high-altitude climbing (above 6,000 meters), offering a stepping stone for those planning to pursue higher Himalayan peaks in the future.

  5. Cultural Experience: The route to Island Peak passes through many Sherpa villages, allowing climbers to immerse themselves in the local culture, traditions, and hospitality of the Everest region. The ancient monasteries like Tengboche Monastery also add to the cultural experience.

Itinerary for Island Peak Climbing

The standard Island Peak climbing itinerary typically lasts around 16-18 days, with several acclimatization days to ensure climbers are prepared for the high-altitude conditions.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

  • Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Transfer to hotel, rest, and gear preparation.

Day 2: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding

  • Flight to Lukla (2,860 meters), then trek to Phakding (2,610 meters).
  • Enjoy the scenic trek along the Dudh Koshi River.

Day 3: Phakding – Namche Bazaar

  • Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters), the main hub of the Everest region.
  • The trail is a steady ascent through beautiful forests.

Day 4: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar

  • Rest and acclimatization in Namche.
  • Optional hike to Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Day 5: Namche Bazaar – Tengboche

  • Trek to Tengboche (3,860 meters), known for its famous Tengboche Monastery.
  • Enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

Day 6: Tengboche – Dingboche

  • Trek to Dingboche (4,410 meters), a small village at the foot of Ama Dablam.
  • The landscape transitions from lush forests to alpine meadows.

Day 7: Acclimatization day in Dingboche

  • Acclimatization hike to a viewpoint for views of Makalu and the surrounding peaks.

Day 8: Dingboche – Lobuche

  • Trek to Lobuche (4,940 meters), an important stop on the way to Everest Base Camp.

Day 9: Lobuche – Gorak Shep – Everest Base Camp

  • Continue to Gorak Shep (5,170 meters), then trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters).
  • Explore the base camp and enjoy views of the Khumbu Icefall.

Day 10: Gorak Shep – Kala Patthar – Chukhung

  • Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) for panoramic views of Everest.
  • Descend to Chukhung (4,730 meters), a small settlement near Island Peak.

Day 11: Chukhung – Island Peak Base Camp

  • Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200 meters).
  • Overnight at the base camp, preparing for the climb.

Day 12: Summit Island Peak – Return to Base Camp

  • Early morning start for the summit attempt.
  • Summit Island Peak (6,189 meters) and return to Base Camp.

Day 13: Spare Day

  • In case of bad weather or any unforeseen circumstances, this day is reserved as a contingency day.

Day 14: Trek to Pangboche

  • Descend to Pangboche (3,930 meters).

Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazaar

  • Continue descending to Namche Bazaar.

Day 16: Trek to Lukla

  • Trek back to Lukla and fly to Kathmandu.

Day 17-18: Kathmandu

  • Return to Kathmandu for sightseeing and celebrations.

Cost of Island Peak Climbing

The cost of climbing Island Peak can vary based on the agency you choose, the type of package (group or private), and what’s included (permits, guides, equipment, etc.). On average, the total cost for an Island Peak climbing expedition ranges from USD 2,000 to USD 4,000 per person.

Breakdown of Costs:

  • Permits & Fees: The climbing permit for Island Peak costs around USD 450. The Sagarmatha National Park Permit and TIMS card will add additional costs.
  • Guide & Porter Fees: A professional climbing guide (who is certified for high-altitude expeditions) costs between USD 30-40 per day. Porters are usually hired at about USD 20-25 per day.
  • Accommodation & Meals: Lodging and meals during the trek will add up to about USD 35-50 per day.
  • Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla: The round-trip flight to Lukla costs between USD 420-450.
  • Equipment Rentals: If you don’t have your own mountaineering gear, renting items like crampons, ice axes, helmets, etc., could cost around USD 150-250.

Best Time for Island Peak Climbing

The best time to climb Island Peak is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons:

  • Spring (March to May): This is the most popular time to climb Island Peak. The weather is generally stable, and the temperatures are moderate. The views are clear, and the trekking routes are well-defined.

  • Autumn (September to November): This is another ideal time for the climb. The monsoon rains have cleared, and the weather is crisp, offering excellent visibility. However, temperatures can be lower, especially as you ascend higher.

Low Season

  • Monsoon (June to August): The region experiences heavy rainfall, making trekking and climbing conditions dangerous.
  • Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures, heavy snow, and difficult climbing conditions make this season less ideal for Island Peak climbing.

Difficulty of Island Peak Climbing

Island Peak is considered a challenging trekking peak, but it is not technically difficult, which makes it a good choice for climbers with some experience. The key challenges include:

  • Altitude: Climbers will face significant altitude gain, which can lead to altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is critical to avoid this risk.
  • Weather Conditions: The weather on the summit can change rapidly, with high winds and freezing temperatures. Climbers should be prepared for these conditions.
  • Technical Sections: While the climb does not require advanced mountaineering skills, there are sections involving steep snow and ice slopes, a short rock climb, and a fixed rope section. Climbers will need to know how to use an ice axe and crampons.

Proper training and preparation are essential for anyone attempting the summit, and it’s recommended that climbers have some experience with high-altitude trekking and basic mountaineering techniques.

Permit Requirements

To climb Island Peak, you will need the following permits:

  1. Island Peak Climbing Permit: USD 450 (for foreign climbers).
  2. Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Approximately USD 30.
  3. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): USD 30.
  4. Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit: This is a local permit, typically around USD 30.

Located between Amadablam and Lhotse Mountains, Island Peak is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal for mountain climbing. Island Peak is also known as Imja Tse. Island Peak climbing if combined with Everest Base Camp Trekking is considered probably the best trip in Nepal.

Island Peak Climbing provides the best experience to every amateur and serious climber. The mountain is seen as an island in the sea of ice from Dingboche and is hence named Island Peak. 
 
The normal route to climb Island Peak is via South East Flank and Southeast ridge. During this trip, we set base camp at Pareshaya Gyab located between Island Peak and the lateral moraine of Imja Glacier. Island Peak is suitable for all climbers whether they are going to climb the Himalayas for the first time or they are keen hill walkers who have prior mountaineering experience. Island Peak is considered a more technical peak to climb than the rest of the climbing peaks in Nepal. During Island Peak Climbing, we can witness the superb views of the south face of Lhotse and Amadablam. March to May and September to December are considered the best seasons for Island Peak Trek in Nepal. You will have a great time climbing Island Peak with Nepal Himalayas Trekking Team. 

Island Peak Location and Reaching There
The magnificent Everest region of the Himalayas offers several climbing adventures. Island Peak Climbing is also in the same region. The peak Imja Tse is popular as Island Peak because of its appearance amongst the towering mountain peaks.

Island Peak climbing trip basically combines trekking and climbing adventures at a go. As you begin the adventure you begin to trek towards the Everest Base Camp and later on go to the Island Peak for climbing.

Accommodation and Food
The adventure uses a lodge and tented camp as accommodation in the mountains. You will stay on a tented camp at the Island Peak Base Camp and in other places, lodge accommodation is available.

The adventure goes on a popular trekking route with easy availability of good food in the mountains. You can eat dal bhat to pizza and many other dishes choosing from the menu during the adventure.

The Climbing Part and Difficulty
You will go for the climbing part from the base camp and complete the adventure in a day. It is a day trip from the base camp to the summit of Island Peak. You start really early in the morning and reach the summit and return back to the base camp.

Island Peak is also popular as a trekking peak. Although it is a climbing adventure, it is not as difficult as a mountaineering adventure. However, it is challenging for sure.

Itinerary Details

Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m, 4428Ft)

Today, upon your arrival Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives from Nepal Himalayas Trekking will welcome you and transfer the hotel.

Day 2 Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley

With the help of our experienced tour guide, you will spend this whole day for Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing. The main places will be: Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Bauddhanath, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square among others.

Day 3 Kathmandu to Lukla (2800 m, 9184 ft, 35 Minutes) Flight and trek to Phakding (2652 m, 8700 ft) (4 hours)

Today, we catch our scheduled flight from Kathmandu to Lukla in the morning. We will enjoy the scenic flight to Lukla which takes approx. 35 minutes. On reaching Lukla, we meet with our rest of the climbing crew and begin trekking to Phakding where we spend overnight.

Day 4 Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m, 11283 ft, 5 to 6 hours)

From Phakding, we start trekking to Namche today. We cross the majestic Dudh Koshi River many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. Then, we enter Sagarmatha National Park and eventually reach Namche. We stay overnight guesthouse.

Day 5 Acclimatization Day in Namche

We will spend a day in Namche in order to adjust to the high altitude. Here, we can go on a short trek to a museum celebrating the traditional customs of the Sherpa People. Besides, we can also have rewarding views of Himalayas with a stunning sunrise and sunset over the Khumbu peaks. We stay overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 6 Trek from Namche to Tyangboche Monastery (3870 m, 12694 ft, 5 to 6 hours)

Our walk continues along the rushing glacial waters of Dudh Koshi today. On the way, we can witness magnificent views of mountains. It takes approx. five hours to reach Tyangboche where we stay overnight in a guesthouse. 

Day 7 Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche (4400m, 14300 ft, 5 to 6 hours)

Our route drops to Deboche today and then crosses the suspension bridge on Imja Khola. After that, we climb to Pangboche. It takes approx. six hours to reach Dingboche, where we stay overnight at guesthouse.

Day 8 Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4730 m, 15518 ft, 4 hours)

We have to trek for approx. four hours to reach Chhukung. Remember that it is very important to adjust to the high altitude in order to climb Island Peak. We stay overnight at a guesthouse. 

Day 9 Trek from Chhukkung to Island Base Camp (5200 m, 17060 ft, 4 hours)

Today too, we will have a short trek of about four hours to reach Island Peak Base Camp. On reaching the Island Peak Base Camp, we set up our camp and spend overnight in tented camp. 

Day 10 Acclimatization Day at Island Peak Base Camp

Today, we will spend a whole day at Island Peak Base Camp to get used with the higher altitude. We can make a short trek around the base camp to prepare for the summit. We stay overnight at tented camp. 

Day 11 Summit to Island Peak (6186 m, 20,290 ft ) and return to Chhukung (8 to 10 hours)

If the weather is permitting, we will begin the main adventure today. We start early in the morning for the scaling the summit of Island Peak. We ascend through a gully and traverse to the right after Camp 1. After making our way up a wide stone field, we cross the ridge to the glacier and crevasses. After making the successful ascent, we descend down the same way back Chhukung today. We stay overnight at tented camp. 

Day 12 Trek from Chhukung to Tyangboche (5 to 6 hours)

We follow the same route back down to Tengboche. And passing through Dingboche, Pangboche and Deboche, we reach Tengboche where we stay overnight at tented camp.

Day 13 Trek from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar (5 hours )

By leaving the mountains behind, we descend from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar. It takes approx. five hours to reach Namche. We stay overnight at tented camp. 

Day 14 Trek from Namche to Lukla (5 to 6 hours )

Today, we trek from Namche to Lukla where we have started the trek. We stay overnight at tented camp.

Day 15 Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

We catch our scheduled flight to Kathmandu today. On reaching Kathmandu, you can take your time to explore the Kathmandu or you can also go for the last minute shopping. You stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu. 

Day 16 Final Departure

Today, after having breakfast, we will accompany you to the airport for the returning flight. We bid you farewell at the airport hoping to see you again!

What Is Included ?

  • Pick up and drop off on your arrival and departure
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis
  • Basic teahouse accommodation in the mountains
  • All breakfasts for the trip
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Three cups of tea a day during the trek
  • A farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • All overland transportation required
  • Flight to Lukla and back to Kathmandu
  • A guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu
  • A professional trekking and climbing guide and the necessary number of porters with their insurance
  • All necessary permits for trekking and climbing

What Is Excluded?

  • International airfare and travel insurance
  • Any kind of drinks except three cups of tea a day during the trek
  • Gratuities to the guide and porters
  • Cost raised by any unfortunate, unforeseen and uncontrollable situations
  • Any other cost not mentioned in the ‘Includes’ section

Additional Information

As an adventure trip in the high Himalayan wilderness, it is an inclusive adventure in the mountains. The cost that you pay for the trip covers your all expenses for accommodation, food, services like a guide and porters, tents, permits, etc. It also covers your flight to Lukla from Kathmandu and back and all ground transportation necessary for the trip from your arrival day.

Your accommodation and breakfasts in Kathmandu are also part of the cost that you pay for the adventure. We have tried to make it an inclusive package so that you have less to worry about arranging the logistics. However, you can explore for your lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.

Although the cost is inclusive, it does not include the trekking and climbing equipment that you can either buy or hire. You can buy or hire them easily in Nepal.

Let us know if you want to know more about the inclusion and exclusion in the cost of the trip.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

USD 2190 Per Person
from USD 2290 2190/ Person
- +
Enquiry Whatsapp +9779841044334

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Island Peak Climbing - 16 Days

Overview And Highlights

The Island Peak (6,189 meters / 20,305 feet), also known as Imja Tse, is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal. Located in the Everest region, it provides an excellent introduction to high-altitude mountaineering and is a favorite among trekkers seeking to scale a Himalayan peak. The peak offers a challenging yet achievable climb, with rewarding views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. This article delves into the key aspects of Island Peak climbing, including its overview, highlights, itinerary, cost, best time to visit, difficulty level, and permit requirements.

Island Peak Climbing: A Comprehensive Guide

Island Peak is a stunning peak located in the Everest region of Nepal. It is often chosen by trekkers who have already completed the Everest Base Camp trek and wish to take on their first Himalayan climb. The peak’s name derives from its appearance—standing like an island in a sea of ice when viewed from Dingboche or other points along the trekking route.

The climb is non-technical but involves basic mountaineering skills such as using crampons, ice axes, and rope. The route to the summit includes navigating a glacier, a steep face of snow and rock, and a narrow ridge to the final summit.

Island Peak climbing offers a sense of accomplishment as climbers summit a peak over 6,000 meters, without the extreme technical difficulty associated with larger peaks like Everest or Makalu. However, it still demands careful preparation and the ability to cope with high altitudes, especially on summit day.

Highlights of Island Peak Climbing

  1. Scenic Everest Region: The journey begins from Lukla, with a trek through the lush Khumbu Valley. Trekkers will pass through charming Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, while being surrounded by views of towering Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

  2. Island Peak Summit: The summit of Island Peak offers panoramic views of the entire Everest region. From the top, you can see peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, among others.

  3. Trekking to Everest Base Camp: The trek leading up to Island Peak is an extension of the Everest Base Camp trek, which is famous for its breathtaking views of the Khumbu Icefall, the massive glaciers, and the towering peaks surrounding the base camp.

  4. High-altitude experience: Island Peak provides trekkers with the chance to experience high-altitude climbing (above 6,000 meters), offering a stepping stone for those planning to pursue higher Himalayan peaks in the future.

  5. Cultural Experience: The route to Island Peak passes through many Sherpa villages, allowing climbers to immerse themselves in the local culture, traditions, and hospitality of the Everest region. The ancient monasteries like Tengboche Monastery also add to the cultural experience.

Itinerary for Island Peak Climbing

The standard Island Peak climbing itinerary typically lasts around 16-18 days, with several acclimatization days to ensure climbers are prepared for the high-altitude conditions.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

  • Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Transfer to hotel, rest, and gear preparation.

Day 2: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding

  • Flight to Lukla (2,860 meters), then trek to Phakding (2,610 meters).
  • Enjoy the scenic trek along the Dudh Koshi River.

Day 3: Phakding – Namche Bazaar

  • Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters), the main hub of the Everest region.
  • The trail is a steady ascent through beautiful forests.

Day 4: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar

  • Rest and acclimatization in Namche.
  • Optional hike to Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Day 5: Namche Bazaar – Tengboche

  • Trek to Tengboche (3,860 meters), known for its famous Tengboche Monastery.
  • Enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

Day 6: Tengboche – Dingboche

  • Trek to Dingboche (4,410 meters), a small village at the foot of Ama Dablam.
  • The landscape transitions from lush forests to alpine meadows.

Day 7: Acclimatization day in Dingboche

  • Acclimatization hike to a viewpoint for views of Makalu and the surrounding peaks.

Day 8: Dingboche – Lobuche

  • Trek to Lobuche (4,940 meters), an important stop on the way to Everest Base Camp.

Day 9: Lobuche – Gorak Shep – Everest Base Camp

  • Continue to Gorak Shep (5,170 meters), then trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters).
  • Explore the base camp and enjoy views of the Khumbu Icefall.

Day 10: Gorak Shep – Kala Patthar – Chukhung

  • Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) for panoramic views of Everest.
  • Descend to Chukhung (4,730 meters), a small settlement near Island Peak.

Day 11: Chukhung – Island Peak Base Camp

  • Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200 meters).
  • Overnight at the base camp, preparing for the climb.

Day 12: Summit Island Peak – Return to Base Camp

  • Early morning start for the summit attempt.
  • Summit Island Peak (6,189 meters) and return to Base Camp.

Day 13: Spare Day

  • In case of bad weather or any unforeseen circumstances, this day is reserved as a contingency day.

Day 14: Trek to Pangboche

  • Descend to Pangboche (3,930 meters).

Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazaar

  • Continue descending to Namche Bazaar.

Day 16: Trek to Lukla

  • Trek back to Lukla and fly to Kathmandu.

Day 17-18: Kathmandu

  • Return to Kathmandu for sightseeing and celebrations.

Cost of Island Peak Climbing

The cost of climbing Island Peak can vary based on the agency you choose, the type of package (group or private), and what’s included (permits, guides, equipment, etc.). On average, the total cost for an Island Peak climbing expedition ranges from USD 2,000 to USD 4,000 per person.

Breakdown of Costs:

  • Permits & Fees: The climbing permit for Island Peak costs around USD 450. The Sagarmatha National Park Permit and TIMS card will add additional costs.
  • Guide & Porter Fees: A professional climbing guide (who is certified for high-altitude expeditions) costs between USD 30-40 per day. Porters are usually hired at about USD 20-25 per day.
  • Accommodation & Meals: Lodging and meals during the trek will add up to about USD 35-50 per day.
  • Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla: The round-trip flight to Lukla costs between USD 420-450.
  • Equipment Rentals: If you don’t have your own mountaineering gear, renting items like crampons, ice axes, helmets, etc., could cost around USD 150-250.

Best Time for Island Peak Climbing

The best time to climb Island Peak is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons:

  • Spring (March to May): This is the most popular time to climb Island Peak. The weather is generally stable, and the temperatures are moderate. The views are clear, and the trekking routes are well-defined.

  • Autumn (September to November): This is another ideal time for the climb. The monsoon rains have cleared, and the weather is crisp, offering excellent visibility. However, temperatures can be lower, especially as you ascend higher.

Low Season

  • Monsoon (June to August): The region experiences heavy rainfall, making trekking and climbing conditions dangerous.
  • Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures, heavy snow, and difficult climbing conditions make this season less ideal for Island Peak climbing.

Difficulty of Island Peak Climbing

Island Peak is considered a challenging trekking peak, but it is not technically difficult, which makes it a good choice for climbers with some experience. The key challenges include:

  • Altitude: Climbers will face significant altitude gain, which can lead to altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is critical to avoid this risk.
  • Weather Conditions: The weather on the summit can change rapidly, with high winds and freezing temperatures. Climbers should be prepared for these conditions.
  • Technical Sections: While the climb does not require advanced mountaineering skills, there are sections involving steep snow and ice slopes, a short rock climb, and a fixed rope section. Climbers will need to know how to use an ice axe and crampons.

Proper training and preparation are essential for anyone attempting the summit, and it’s recommended that climbers have some experience with high-altitude trekking and basic mountaineering techniques.

Permit Requirements

To climb Island Peak, you will need the following permits:

  1. Island Peak Climbing Permit: USD 450 (for foreign climbers).
  2. Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Approximately USD 30.
  3. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): USD 30.
  4. Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit: This is a local permit, typically around USD 30.

Located between Amadablam and Lhotse Mountains, Island Peak is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal for mountain climbing. Island Peak is also known as Imja Tse. Island Peak climbing if combined with Everest Base Camp Trekking is considered probably the best trip in Nepal.

Island Peak Climbing provides the best experience to every amateur and serious climber. The mountain is seen as an island in the sea of ice from Dingboche and is hence named Island Peak. 
 
The normal route to climb Island Peak is via South East Flank and Southeast ridge. During this trip, we set base camp at Pareshaya Gyab located between Island Peak and the lateral moraine of Imja Glacier. Island Peak is suitable for all climbers whether they are going to climb the Himalayas for the first time or they are keen hill walkers who have prior mountaineering experience. Island Peak is considered a more technical peak to climb than the rest of the climbing peaks in Nepal. During Island Peak Climbing, we can witness the superb views of the south face of Lhotse and Amadablam. March to May and September to December are considered the best seasons for Island Peak Trek in Nepal. You will have a great time climbing Island Peak with Nepal Himalayas Trekking Team. 

Island Peak Location and Reaching There
The magnificent Everest region of the Himalayas offers several climbing adventures. Island Peak Climbing is also in the same region. The peak Imja Tse is popular as Island Peak because of its appearance amongst the towering mountain peaks.

Island Peak climbing trip basically combines trekking and climbing adventures at a go. As you begin the adventure you begin to trek towards the Everest Base Camp and later on go to the Island Peak for climbing.

Accommodation and Food
The adventure uses a lodge and tented camp as accommodation in the mountains. You will stay on a tented camp at the Island Peak Base Camp and in other places, lodge accommodation is available.

The adventure goes on a popular trekking route with easy availability of good food in the mountains. You can eat dal bhat to pizza and many other dishes choosing from the menu during the adventure.

The Climbing Part and Difficulty
You will go for the climbing part from the base camp and complete the adventure in a day. It is a day trip from the base camp to the summit of Island Peak. You start really early in the morning and reach the summit and return back to the base camp.

Island Peak is also popular as a trekking peak. Although it is a climbing adventure, it is not as difficult as a mountaineering adventure. However, it is challenging for sure.

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m, 4428Ft)

Today, upon your arrival Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives from Nepal Himalayas Trekking will welcome you and transfer the hotel.

Day 2 Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley

With the help of our experienced tour guide, you will spend this whole day for Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing. The main places will be: Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Bauddhanath, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square among others.

Day 3 Kathmandu to Lukla (2800 m, 9184 ft, 35 Minutes) Flight and trek to Phakding (2652 m, 8700 ft) (4 hours)

Today, we catch our scheduled flight from Kathmandu to Lukla in the morning. We will enjoy the scenic flight to Lukla which takes approx. 35 minutes. On reaching Lukla, we meet with our rest of the climbing crew and begin trekking to Phakding where we spend overnight.

Day 4 Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m, 11283 ft, 5 to 6 hours)

From Phakding, we start trekking to Namche today. We cross the majestic Dudh Koshi River many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. Then, we enter Sagarmatha National Park and eventually reach Namche. We stay overnight guesthouse.

Day 5 Acclimatization Day in Namche

We will spend a day in Namche in order to adjust to the high altitude. Here, we can go on a short trek to a museum celebrating the traditional customs of the Sherpa People. Besides, we can also have rewarding views of Himalayas with a stunning sunrise and sunset over the Khumbu peaks. We stay overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 6 Trek from Namche to Tyangboche Monastery (3870 m, 12694 ft, 5 to 6 hours)

Our walk continues along the rushing glacial waters of Dudh Koshi today. On the way, we can witness magnificent views of mountains. It takes approx. five hours to reach Tyangboche where we stay overnight in a guesthouse. 

Day 7 Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche (4400m, 14300 ft, 5 to 6 hours)

Our route drops to Deboche today and then crosses the suspension bridge on Imja Khola. After that, we climb to Pangboche. It takes approx. six hours to reach Dingboche, where we stay overnight at guesthouse.

Day 8 Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4730 m, 15518 ft, 4 hours)

We have to trek for approx. four hours to reach Chhukung. Remember that it is very important to adjust to the high altitude in order to climb Island Peak. We stay overnight at a guesthouse. 

Day 9 Trek from Chhukkung to Island Base Camp (5200 m, 17060 ft, 4 hours)

Today too, we will have a short trek of about four hours to reach Island Peak Base Camp. On reaching the Island Peak Base Camp, we set up our camp and spend overnight in tented camp. 

Day 10 Acclimatization Day at Island Peak Base Camp

Today, we will spend a whole day at Island Peak Base Camp to get used with the higher altitude. We can make a short trek around the base camp to prepare for the summit. We stay overnight at tented camp. 

Day 11 Summit to Island Peak (6186 m, 20,290 ft ) and return to Chhukung (8 to 10 hours)

If the weather is permitting, we will begin the main adventure today. We start early in the morning for the scaling the summit of Island Peak. We ascend through a gully and traverse to the right after Camp 1. After making our way up a wide stone field, we cross the ridge to the glacier and crevasses. After making the successful ascent, we descend down the same way back Chhukung today. We stay overnight at tented camp. 

Day 12 Trek from Chhukung to Tyangboche (5 to 6 hours)

We follow the same route back down to Tengboche. And passing through Dingboche, Pangboche and Deboche, we reach Tengboche where we stay overnight at tented camp.

Day 13 Trek from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar (5 hours )

By leaving the mountains behind, we descend from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar. It takes approx. five hours to reach Namche. We stay overnight at tented camp. 

Day 14 Trek from Namche to Lukla (5 to 6 hours )

Today, we trek from Namche to Lukla where we have started the trek. We stay overnight at tented camp.

Day 15 Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

We catch our scheduled flight to Kathmandu today. On reaching Kathmandu, you can take your time to explore the Kathmandu or you can also go for the last minute shopping. You stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu. 

Day 16 Final Departure

Today, after having breakfast, we will accompany you to the airport for the returning flight. We bid you farewell at the airport hoping to see you again!

What Is Included ?

  • Pick up and drop off on your arrival and departure
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis
  • Basic teahouse accommodation in the mountains
  • All breakfasts for the trip
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Three cups of tea a day during the trek
  • A farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • All overland transportation required
  • Flight to Lukla and back to Kathmandu
  • A guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu
  • A professional trekking and climbing guide and the necessary number of porters with their insurance
  • All necessary permits for trekking and climbing

What Is Excluded?

  • International airfare and travel insurance
  • Any kind of drinks except three cups of tea a day during the trek
  • Gratuities to the guide and porters
  • Cost raised by any unfortunate, unforeseen and uncontrollable situations
  • Any other cost not mentioned in the ‘Includes’ section

Additional Information

As an adventure trip in the high Himalayan wilderness, it is an inclusive adventure in the mountains. The cost that you pay for the trip covers your all expenses for accommodation, food, services like a guide and porters, tents, permits, etc. It also covers your flight to Lukla from Kathmandu and back and all ground transportation necessary for the trip from your arrival day.

Your accommodation and breakfasts in Kathmandu are also part of the cost that you pay for the adventure. We have tried to make it an inclusive package so that you have less to worry about arranging the logistics. However, you can explore for your lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.

Although the cost is inclusive, it does not include the trekking and climbing equipment that you can either buy or hire. You can buy or hire them easily in Nepal.

Let us know if you want to know more about the inclusion and exclusion in the cost of the trip.

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We accept

  • visa card
  • maestro
  • jcb
  • master card

Associated and Recommended On

  • Nepal Mountaineering Association
  • Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal
  • Nepal Tourism Board
  • Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation
  • Tripadvisor
  • Trust Pilot
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