Island Peak Climbing

Island Peak (Imja Tse), standing at 6,189 meters, is a stunning trekking peak in Nepal’s Khumbu region. Its challenging ascent offers climbers not only a test of their skills but […]

17 Days
15 - 20 KM Per Day
Teahouse camping
Start from Lukla and End to Lukla
Min 1 to Max 10 Pax in a group
Domestic flight
strenuous

Highlights

  • Climbing Island Peak 6189m
  • Flora and Fauna of Sagarmatha National Park
  • Adventurous flight to Lukla
  • Stunning mountain landscape view including Mt Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Makalu and Ama Dablam etc
  • Explore the sherpa culture and visit the sherpa museum
  • Biggest monastery in Khumbu - Tengboche Monastery

Overview

Island Peak (Imja Tse), standing at 6,189 meters, is a stunning trekking peak in Nepal’s Khumbu region. Its challenging ascent offers climbers not only a test of their skills but also breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Everest and Lhotse. The climb combines ice and rock techniques, making it an ideal choice for those looking to step up from trekking to mountaineering. The adventure starts with a trek through the Khumbu Valley, leading to an exhilarating summit attempt on Island Peak.

Best Time to Climb Island Peak

The prime times for climbing Island Peak are during the autumn months of September to November and the spring months of March to May. During autumn, the weather is generally stable with clear skies and cooler temperatures, providing ideal climbing conditions. Spring offers warmer temperatures and less snow, making it another excellent time for the climb. While winter is also a possibility, it is less favorable due to harsher weather conditions and increased difficulty.

Accommodation

During your stay in Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in comfortable hotels offering modern amenities. Throughout the trek, you will stay in teahouses that provide basic but cozy lodging, ensuring you have a comfortable place to rest each night. At Island Peak Base Camp and High Camp, you will stay in well-equipped tents designed for climbing conditions, ensuring you are protected from the elements.

Food

During the trek, you will enjoy a variety of nutritious meals to support your energy needs. The teahouses along the trekking route offer a diverse menu including rice, noodles, pasta, potatoes, and eggs, tailored to high-altitude nutritional requirements. At Island Peak Base Camp, hearty meals are provided to fuel your climb. Above Base Camp, you will have dried meals such as pasta and rice, suitable for high-altitude conditions. Meals are prepared to ensure you receive the necessary energy for your climb and trek.

Itinerary

If you want tailor-made trip or want to personalize this itinerary, just feel free to contact us. We are always there to help you to make your holiday plan. Contact us

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Duration 30 minets
Distance 6 km
Altitude 1340m
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After settling in, you’ll attend a briefing session to review the trek and climb details. This evening is yours to explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu and its cultural landmarks.
Day 2

Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding

Duration 3 Hours
Distance 6.2 km
Altitude 2610m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
In the morning, you'll take an exhilarating flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840 meters), offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, you'll begin your trek to Phakding (2,610 meters), following a scenic trail through lush forests and charming Sherpa villages. The day’s trek is relatively short, allowing you to acclimate and prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 3

Trek to Namche Bazaar

Duration 7 hours
Distance 9.4 km
Altitude 3440m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today's trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters) involves crossing several suspension bridges and ascending a steep hill. As you approach Namche, the trail provides fantastic views of Everest and other peaks. Namche Bazaar is a bustling town and the main trading center of the Khumbu region, where you can explore local markets and experience Sherpa culture.
Day 4

: Acclimatization Day in Namche

Spend the day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize to the altitude. You can take a day hike to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. This acclimatization day is crucial for ensuring your body adjusts to the high altitude before continuing your trek.
Day 5

Trek to Tengboche

Duration 6 Hours
Distance 9.5 km
Altitude 3880m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
From Namche Bazaar, you’ll trek to Tengboche (3,860 meters). The trail traverses beautiful rhododendron forests and crosses the Dudh Koshi River. Upon reaching Tengboche, you’ll visit the Tengboche Monastery, renowned for its stunning location and spiritual ambiance.
Day 6

Trek to Dingboche

Duration 6 Hours
Distance 12 km
Altitude 4400m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Continue your trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 meters). This segment offers impressive views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Dingboche is a picturesque village that serves as a great spot for acclimatization and preparation for the upcoming climb.
Day 7

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Take a day hike to higher altitudes, such as the Nagkharka viewpoint, to aid in acclimatization. Return to Dingboche in the afternoon for rest and preparation. This additional acclimatization day helps prevent altitude sickness and ensures you are well-prepared for the climb.
Day 8

Trek to Chhukung

Duration 4 Hours
Distance 4 km
Altitude 4730m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730 meters), a small settlement that serves as a base for Island Peak climbing. The trek is relatively short but provides excellent acclimatization opportunities. Chhukung is surrounded by rugged terrain and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 9

Trek to Island Peak Base Camp

Duration 4 hours
Distance 3.5 km
Altitude 5130m
Accommodation in tent
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
From Chhukung, trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200 meters). The trail involves crossing a glacier and navigating rocky terrain. Once at Base Camp, you’ll have time to rest and enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery while preparing for the climb.
Day 10

Acclimatization and Preparation

Spend the day at Base Camp to acclimatize further and prepare for the summit attempt. This is a crucial day for reviewing climbing techniques, checking equipment, and ensuring you are physically and mentally ready for the climb.
Day 11

Island Peak Summit Day

Duration 9/13 Hours
Altitude 6165m
Accommodation in tent
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Start your summit attempt early, typically around 2 or 3 AM. The climb involves traversing snow and ice, crossing crevasses on ladders, and ascending the steep Ice Head Wall. Reaching the summit of Island Peak offers breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other towering peaks. After summiting, return to Base Camp for rest.
Day 12

Trek to Chhukung

Duration 3 Hours
Distance 3.5 km
Altitude 4730m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Descend from Base Camp to Chhukung. This return trek allows you to reflect on your climbing achievement and relax after the demanding ascent.
Day 13

Trek to Tengboche

Duration 7 Hours
Distance 15.5 km
Altitude 3880m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
From Chhukung, trek back to Tengboche. This journey provides a different perspective of the landscape and allows you to revisit the familiar surroundings of Tengboche.
Day 14

Trek to Namche Bazaar

Duration 4 Hours
Distance 9.5 km
Altitude 3440m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Continue your trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar. The descent provides a chance to enjoy the final views of the Khumbu region and prepare for the last leg of the journey.
Day 15

Trek to Lukla

Duration 7/8 Hours
Distance 13.5 km
Altitude 2860m
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, passing through picturesque forests and villages. This final stretch of the trek marks the end of your trekking journey and prepares you for the flight back to Kathmandu.
Day 16

Fly to Kathmandu

Take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time in the city. Explore Kathmandu’s cultural sites or do some last-minute shopping.
Day 17

Departure

Spend your last day in Kathmandu at your leisure. When the time comes, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your adventure.

Inclusions

What's included

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star hotel) and during the trek in teahouses.
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu).
  • Special Climbing permit.
  • Experienced trekking guide and porters.
  • Experience Sherpa Local  Mountain Guide.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
  • Tea or Coffee 3 times a day
  • All accommodation during trek.
  • All necessary paperwork; trekking permits. Khumbu entrance fee and Island Peak climbing permit
  • Good quality tents and kitchen utensils for camping
  • Tea house accommodation throughout the trek.
  • Group mountaineering (climbing) equipment
  • Farewell Dinner.

Add-ons

    What's not included

    • Nepalese visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)
    • Excess baggage charges (if you have more than 15 kg of luggage, the cargo charge is around $1.5 per kg)
    • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
    • Altitude chamber (PAC) or oxygen
    • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
    • Travel and rescue insurance
    • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
    • Personal climbing equipment
    • Optional trips and sightseeing if extended
    • Tips for guides and porters

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How challenging is Island Peak climbing?

    Climbing Island Peak involves technical ice and rock climbing skills. The ascent includes crossing crevasses on ladders and climbing a steep Ice Head Wall. Climbers should be in excellent physical condition, well-acclimatized, and familiar with climbing techniques.

    How many nights will I spend camping?

    You will camp at Island Peak Base Camp for one night and at High Camp for another night. In case of delays, an extra night at High Camp may be required.

    Is a climbing permit required?

    Yes, a climbing permit is required for Island Peak. The permit is included in the package cost, and we handle all necessary arrangements.

    What should I pack?

    Essential gear includes mountaineering boots, crampons, an ice axe, and a climbing harness. We provide some climbing equipment, but you should bring appropriate clothing and personal items for the trek and climb.

    Can I climb solo?

    Solo climbs are possible but typically more expensive. We highly recommend hiring a guide for safety and support. Private trips are flexible but may cost more than joining a fixed group departure.

    What if I need to leave the expedition early?

    In case of health issues or emergencies, we will arrange for evacuation and medical assistance. Ensure your insurance covers high-altitude search and rescue. Refunds for unused days are not provided, but we will support your guides and porters for their contracted duration.

    Is travel insurance required?

    Comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency evacuation, injury, and medical treatment is essential. Ensure it includes coverage for high-altitude climbing activities.

    What if flights to Lukla are canceled?

    If flights are canceled due to weather, we can reschedule or arrange a helicopter flight, which may incur additional costs.

    How can I stay connected during the trek?

    You can stay connected via satellite phones or local SIM cards in major towns along the trek. However, network coverage may be limited in remote areas.

     

    Dream Himalayas Illustration