Island Peak Climbing - 18 Days

Trek Route Summary

Maximum elevation:
6189m
Group size:
min 1 and max 10
Arrival on:
Kathmandu, Nepal
Departure from:
Kathmandu, Nepal

Trip Overview

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

Island Peak Climbing offers the climbers a brave and exciting climbing background in a rising for the most part non-specialized with some fundamental snow climbing aptitudes. Sitting amidst Upper Chhukung valley, Island Peak offers eminent view of the taking off Himalayas including the tallest Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and other neighboring pinnacles. Climbers go for Island Peak Climbing knowledge the icy mass travel, direct snow and ice climbing, stroll over the frequently vertiginous suspension spans trimmed with petition banners, through thick backwoods with assortments of vegetations and natural life, and get a warm and inviting gathering by the unbelievable Sherpa people group.

Island Peak climbing takes after the trail to traditional Everest Base Camp Trek before getting isolated close Dingboche. Prior to that, climbers begin their undertaking with the investigation of recorded legacies of Kathmandu and travel to Lukla, the portal to the Khumbu area. The climb then starts from Lukla with an amazing scene of the grandiose Himalayas and plunges to the riverbed of compelling Dudh Koshi River past Mani walls, prayer banners and littler villas, for example, Chheplung, Thado Koshigaon and others. Taking after the trail along the icy smooth stream, we trek through littler settlements, lavish and thick timberland, terraced farmlands, a few suspension banners trimmed with petition banners, waterfalls before coming to the Monjo town, access to the Sagarmatha National Park. Ahead in the trail we experience soak inclines to reach Namche Bazaar and further on the trail we explore through views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse Shar, Daboche and different pinnacles, stone strides and soak trail before achieving antiquated religious communities of Tengboche, Pangboche and Dingboche. Presently we should bit by bit go into the Everest Base Camp and move to Gorakshep, Kala Patthar and a definitive site of Everest Base Camp before trekking down to Chhukung town. Separating our trail from the principle course, we then head into the Chhukung valley. Through the trail encompassed by icy masses, icy lakes, torrential slide chutes and towering Himalayas we reach to the base of Imja Tse or Island Peak. After a few arrangements, we summit this pinnacle and have eminent view of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, Baruntse, Ama Dablam and others. We trek back to Lukla and after that to Kathmandu to finish this enterprise.

Island Peak Climbing is great start for beginner climbers and is a touch of testing knowledge that joins trekking and top climbing. March to May and September to November is the best seasons for this experience. With enough arrangements, you can encounter lifetime excite and experience amid this endeavor. Permit us to deal with your agenda, convenience and different views amid your Island Peak Climbing undertaking. Join the Island Peak Climbing to encounter the mix of experience and social investigation and get enduring recollections and a satisfying feeling of accomplishment.

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlight Overnight
Day 1 Arrival then transfer to Hotel Kathmandu
Day 2 Kathmandu to Lukla Flight then Trek to Phakding Phakding
Day 3 Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar Namche Bazaar
Day 4 Namche Bazaar Rest Namche Bazaar
Day 5 Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche Tengboche
Day 6 Trek from Tengboche to Pheriche Pheriche
Day 7 Trek from Pheriche to Lobuche Lobuche
Day 8 Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp then to Gorakshep Gorakshep
Day 9 Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar then back to Lobuche Lobuche
Day 10 Lobuche to Kongma La pass then Chhukung Chhukung
Day 11 Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp Island Peak Base Camp
Day 12 Pre Climb Training Island Peak Base Camp
Day 13 Island Peak summit then O/N at Island Peak Base Camp Island Peak Base Camp
Day 14 Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Dingboche Dingboche
Day 15 Trek from Dingboche to Namche Bazaar Namche Bazaar
Day 16 Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla Lukla
Day 17 Fly to Kathmandu early morning Kathmandu
Day 18 Final Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Open All Days

Welcome to Nepal: a country that epitomizes a harmonious blend of diverse culture and bottomless natural grandeur. Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, we’ll come across each other and exchange a warm greeting. You’ll be then escorted to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest and repose utilizing the amenities offered by your hotel. In the evening, you may amble within the relaxed ambience of the Thamel, experiencing the radiance and charm of this vibrant marketplace.

Overnight at:Kathmandu

Early in the morning, we’ll board a scheduled flight to Lukla. This flight with the duration of 30 minutes render the aerial view of verdant valleys, lush greenery, terraced farmlands, and sparkling rivers. Besides that, you’ll also catch the aerial glimpses of lofty mountaintops and spectacular snowscapes. The exquisite display of snow-capped peaks charms the heart of spectators. Following our arrival in Lukla, we’ll commence our trekking venture and head along the well-marked trail. Accompanied by the outlook of Mt. Kusum Kanguru (6,367m), we’ll advance through the picturesque landscapes to Phakding Village (2,652m), leaving behind the Sherpa settlements of Chheplung (2,700m) and Ghat (2,590m).

Overnight at:Phakding

We’ll wander over our first suspension bridge and reach the west bank of the river Dudh Koshi. As we advance on the trekking route further, we’ll make it to Benkar. Afterwards, the trail traverses the river again to climbs through the woodland of pine and rhododendron. Continuing past Jorsalle and Monjo; we’ll push forward across the Territory of Sagarmatha National Park, a site listed in the UNESCO Natural Heritage Sites since 1979. The trail now crosses and re-crosses the river before converting into a steady ascent to Namche Bazaar. Halfway up the slope, we can spot an abandoned teahouse at the left-hand bend and it is here, we can have the initial sight of Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse in a clear weather. Due to its unique geographical location, Namche Bazaar functions as the commercial hub of the Khumbu Region and home to modern amenities such as internet cafes, a bank, pharmacy, an ATM, bakery, numerous lodges and Tibetan souvenir shops. From down jackets to woollen hats and used pieces of equipment left from previous expeditions, you can shop anything here. Just keep in mind that the increase in altitude results in the rise of the price of goods.

Overnight at:Namche Bazaar

Positioned on a mountainside, Namche Bazaar put forward the delightful vistas embracing Kongde Ri (6,187m) to the west and Thamserku (6,623m) to the east. This day, we’ll take a break from the trek and adapt according to the surrounding atmosphere. Acclimatization is necessary as the higher elevations lead to decreased levels of oxygen which may induce Altitude Sickness among the trekkers. Explore the sublime Sherpa ‘capital’ and acquire an insight into the culture as well as traditions of the native communities. Spend some time in the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery to perceive the classical lifestyle of people living in high mountains. If you don’t wish to rest, you may go for a short hike to nearby villages above the Namche Bazaar such as Thame or Khumjung for beautiful Himalayan panorama can be observed in the clear weather from these elevated spots.

Overnight at:Namche Bazaar

This morning, we’ll resume our trek. The trail uphill is fairly easy and heads in the direction of Everest outlook. Navigating along the Dudh Koshi River, we’ll wander through the woods to Phungki Thanka. We can enjoy the majestic views of Mt. Everest from here.  Across the rhododendron woodlands, we’ll make our way to Tengboche (3,860m).  En route, we’ll encounter breathtaking natural scenery of Himalayan summits, rivers, and hills. The settlement of Tengboche is settled at the conflux of Dudh Koshi and the Imja Khola Rivers. Overlooked by the high hills, this Sherpa village is enclosed in the rhododendron forest and well renowned for magnificent Tengboche monastery i.e. largest in the Khumbu Region.  From here, you can witness the impressive vistas of Everest, Ama Dablam and other adjacent summits. Have a pleasant time in the mountainous countryside.

Overnight at:Tengboche

Keeping on with the trail, we’ll traverse the lush woodlands. Find your pleasure in the fresh aroma of green vegetations because this will be your final opportunity until we descend back. Succeeding the walk on a suspension bridge over the river, we’ll reach to its north side. From this point onwards, we’ll move up to Pangboche (3950m), the Sherpa Village dominated by Mt. Ama Dablam. It is an excellent place to stopover for some tea. We’ll now range over the river and continue to Tsuo Og, a remote outpost of not many houses. The trail splits here. The path to the left guides to Pheriche (4,275m); whereas, to the right, it leads to Dingboche (4,360m). Advancing on the left of the river, we’ll get to Pheriche.

Overnight at:Pheriche

We’ll move along the trekking trail until it subdivides further. Continuing to the right, we’ll cross a small bridge then arrive at Dughla (4,620m), a good place for rest and refreshments. Subsequently, we’ll ascend upward on a rugged rocky moraine track till a plateau and small pass. Up to this point, we have gained an elevation of 200m. This is where the Khumbu Glacier ends. All the stacks of rock at front of you are the monuments dedicated for the climbers who perished on Everest expeditions.  It constantly reminds of the risks and endurance individuals come into contact with at the time of Everest expeditions. Here on, the trail gets muddy up until Lobuche (4,910m). It is an isolated and windy place with a collection of lodges.

Overnight at:Lobuche

We’ll march alongside the north-west side of the Khumbu Glacier. If lucky enough, we can view the shape of Pumori emerging in front of us. Afterwards, we’ll ascend on the standard trail to the U-shaped Lobuche Pass (5,110m) then continue beyond an intersection f three glaciers. At last, we’ll make it to Gorakshep (5,181m) Like Lobuche; this Sherpa settlement comprises a handful of lodges that service the trekkers and climbers.  Later on, we’ll climb our way to Everest Base Camp. This stretch of trail is arduous in both directions and surprisingly the hike down takes as long as uphill. We’ll take some caution as the Colossal Himalayas around us confuses our sense of scale; thus, things appear closer than it is. The route initially proceeds beside the Khumbu Glacier then crosses it to Base Camp i.e. positioned at the muzzle of the notorious Khumbu Icefall. Contemplate the mind-boggling outlooks of Himalayan snowscape. Also, capture these magical moments in your camera. We’ll then move back to Gorakshep.

Overnight at:Gorakshep

Before the crack of the dawn, we’ll climb up to Kalapatthar. Regarded as the best viewpoint in the Khumbu Region; Kalapatthar boasts significant elevation of 5,545m asl. Due to its superior geographical position, the viewpoint in Kalapatthar possesses the ability to extend the phenomenal close-up outlook of Mt. Everest. On top of that, become a witness of the most amazing Himalayan sunrise in the world from here. Where in the world you can observe the morning sun above the highest peak in the entire planet? Kalapatthar provides more than you asked for! Feast your eyes on the panorama of the Himalayas, which includes the snow covered mountain tops of Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse. Moreover, you can gaze at the immense face of formidable Changtse (7,750m) placed just above the Lho La Pass. We’ll then move down to Gorakshep and stay with the course to Lobuche.

Overnight at:Lobuche

Leaving Lobuche, we’ll trek beyond the Khumbu Glacier and climb the precipitous trail to the top of the Kongma La pass i.e. marked by a cairn and fluttering Buddhist prayer flags. From this point, we can watch the stupendous outlook encompassing glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongtega. We’ll then overcome the Nuptse Glacier moraines and progress to the settlement of Chhukung. This segment of trail is situated in the remote region; so, we must be well-prepared physically and mentally. Besides that, we need to carry packed lunches and plentiful water as there are no teahouses available.  If you are fond of the real nature and isolation then you’ll find today very interesting.

Overnight at:Chhukung

On the day eleven of our escapade, we’ll trek to Island Base Camp.  The route consists of relatively precipitous climbs. At first, we’ll ascend to the south then move to the east where the major outline of the valley lies. Thereafter, we’ll forge ahead on the serpentine trail beneath the southern side of moraine from the Lhotse Glacier. The trail now becomes blissful and eventually continues along the side of a spouting stream. Along the way to the southeast, we can catch a view of the path to the Amphu Lapcha route. A lattice path across the Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines guides to an open valley (Pareshaya Gyab) close to the southwest flank of the Island Peak.

Overnight at:Island Peak Base Camp

The day twelve is allocated for our pre-climb training. Despite the fact that prior training for Island Peak Climbing is not obligatory, we firmly believe some training is essential in order to build up your confidence level and climbing skills. This will undeniably raise the chances of conquering the summit without being injured or harmed. The guidance, as well as instructions, will be provided by our experienced climbing guide. You’ll learn and practice the techniques of using climbing equipment such as climbing boots, crampons, harness, ascender and ice axe. You’ll also acquire knowledge of employing ropes so that you can move up or down while ascending the peak.  Utilize the day as much as possible to obtain new ability or hone the previously acquired expertise. 

Overnight at:Island Peak Base Camp

Today is the day to fulfil our ambition of setting our foot on the top! We’ll initiate our climb before the break of the day (generally around 1 AM). The summit must be ascent prior to noon because the strong winds may create an obstacle for a successful climbing journey. Initially, we’ll ascend the rock gully as it is not tough yet consist of numerous rock steps. We’ll then make it to the right side of the gully. Along the ridgeline, the route leads to a delightful and bare crossing onto the face of the summit glacier. As the frozen glacier contains a number of crevasses, we need to rope up.  The ropes will be fixed by the guides wherever it is required. Traversing an abrupt snow slope, we’ll appear onto the summit ridge then to the top itself. This escapade to the vertex of a peak will test your endurance to its limit!! Now, it is time for rewards. Enjoy the mind-boggling views of the snowscapes and capture the mountain panorama in our cameras. Subsequent to that, we’ll move down all the way to Island Peak Base Camp.

Overnight at:Island Peak Base Camp

We’ll first descend to Chhukung pursuing the exact same route which we used at the time of our ascent. Take pleasure in the marvellous mountain scenery along the way. After some refreshments, we’ll advance our steps to the Sherpa settlement of Dingboche where we’ll stay overnight. You can have a look at this beautiful village whose farmlands are encircled by kilometres of stone walls.

Overnight at:Dingboche

Resuming our return, we’ll make a descent to Tengboche leaving behind glacial moraines, chortens, monasteries, suspension bridges, boulderstone, pinewoods and Sherpa villages of Somare, Pangboche, and Deboche. Later on, we will negotiate the suspension bridge over Dudh Koshi River then proceed beyond a handful of Sherpa villages and pine woods to Namche Bazaar.

Overnight at:Namche Bazaar

We’ll continue with the descent and follow the trekking trail that proceeds steeply down across the rugged terrain. After traversing lush woodlands and the suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, the route passes through lower valleys putting forward the lovely vistas of rhododendron and pine forest, and snow-covered peaks. In the end, we’ll arrive at Lukla. We can finally provide the much-need rest to our tired feet and think of the thrilling experience we had in the last couple of weeks.

Overnight at:Lukla

After the appearance of the first light, we’ll board a scheduled thirty minutes fight to Kathmandu. The flights are frequently cancelled or delayed due to bad weather in Lukla so we should be prepared for this misfortune. The scenic flight extends the final glimpses of Himalayan snowscapes so enjoy it to the fullest. Once at Kathmandu, you can visit the remaining landmarks and marketplaces. Don’t forget to shop the souvenirs for your family and loved ones.

Overnight at:Kathmandu

This very day marks the end of your adventures in Nepal. We hope that you are satisfied with our hospitality and services. With the expectations to meet you again in your next escapade, we put forth our farewells. One of our representatives will escort you to Kathmandu Airport; three hours prior to your flight back home and make sure that you don’t encounter troubles during your final moments in Nepal. Cheers!!!

Altitude Chart

Island Peak Climbing

Price Includes

  • Airport and hotel transfers as per itinerary in private vehicle
  • Four nights’ twin sharing accommodation with breakfast in deluxe Kathmandu Sunny Hotel or similar hotel in Kathmandu
  • Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu including temple/monument entry fees and private vehicle
  • Round trip flight Kathmandu – Lukla– Kathmandu including departure taxes
  • Climbing equipment (Climbing Rope, Ice Screw, Snow Bar, Ice Hammer)
  • Climbing Sherpa guide from Island peak base camp for the summit and back to base camp
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek and climb
  • Best available accommodation in local lodges during the trek and tented accommodation during climb; we provide rooms with private bathrooms and hot shower at Phakding, Namche and Lukla
  • Staff– one professional, knowledgeable and friendly English speaking climbing leader, assistant guide (6 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and necessary porters and helpers including their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, transportation, and insurance
  • Duffle bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket for use during the trek and climb
  • Holy Mountain Treks T – shirt, trekking map and trip achievement certificate
  • First aid medical kit
  • Island peak climbing Permit, National Park Permits (Please bring 4 passport size photos for permit)
  • All government taxes & office service charge

Price Excludes

  • Nepal visa arrangement (more on Nepal Visa Information)
  • International airfares
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Sightseeing activities in Kathmandu
  • Added night/s accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, delayed departure, early return from mountain (due to any cause) than the programmed itinerary
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from mountain than the programmed itinerary)
  • Alcoholic drinks and cold drinks
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls, bar bills, laundry, battery recharge, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, extra porters, etc
  • Personal trekking and climbing gears
  • Tips for guides and porters (tip is expected but not mandatory)

Trip Map

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