Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trekking

Kathmandu, Lukla, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Pheriche, Everest Base Camp, Dingboche, Chukung, Island Peak
Travel Styles - Active Adventures

Country

Nepal

Duration

20 Days

Best Season

Mar to May / Sep to Nov

Group

Private

Max. Altitude

20305 ft./ 6189 m.

Accommodation

Hotel / Lodge / Camp

Transportation

Flight / Private Vehicle

Grade

Adventurous

Start/End

Kathmandu
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Overview

Island peak climbing has gained much popularity in the recent years as the summit is physically demanding but is relatively less technical. If you are physical fit and have aspiration to summit the peak following the challenge that arises at the altitude, Island peak is perfect option for you. The wholesome experience of Khumbu region as your journey to summit includes trekking to the basecamp of the words highest mountain, i.e. Mount Everest. You will also be visiting Kalapatthar, an ultimate view point where you will be surrounded by mountains like Pumori, Chyangtse, Nuptse, Lhotse and the amazing Mount Everest followed by other gigantic mountains.

 

Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is a popular peak located in the Everest region of Nepal. It's considered a good option for those who want to experience high-altitude climbing without tackling the more technical and challenging peaks.

 

Normally climbing the island peak takes around 16 days including the days for acclimatization as well as training. The days tends to be long for this itinerary as you will also be visiting the Everest basecamp as well as Kalapatthar. The climb involves crossing glaciers, steep snow and ice and rocky ridges in order to reach summit at an elevation of 6189m.

 

Things will be easier for climbers who has previous experience with using axe, crampons and ropes. However, the training will be provided by the support climbing guides too so no need to worry if there is no prior experience.

 

Permits are required to climb Island Peak, and can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. The climbing season typically runs from March to May and September to November.

 

We start our journey to island peak by catching the adventure flight to Lukla airport. We then follow the classic trail leading to Everest base camp. You will be hiking through Sherpa village, the exotic town of Namche, getting insights on Sherpa culture, life style and amazing wildlife. Once reaching base camp of Everest we then return to Dingboche. We follow the trail via Chhukung we depart to Imja Valley where Island Peak nestles. We then will summit the island peak and return back following the same route that we took from Lukla.

 

For more than ten years, Global Holidays Adventure has been offering a carefully designed package tour for Island Peak climbing, with a focus on high-quality service and hassle-free travel for our clients. Our itineraries are well-planned and include enough time for acclimatization to ensure the good health condition of our climbers. Our experienced and highly successful Sherpa Guides, who are capable of handling any unexpected situations that may arise in the Himalayan region. We place a high priority on safety and make sure our clients have a safe and enjoyable climbing experience.

Trek Route 

The journey commences in Kathmandu, the bustling and unique capital city. Here, you'll meet your team and Sherpa, inspect the gear, and make any final purchases necessary for the upcoming climb and trek.

The gateway to the Everest region, Lukla, is reached by a flight to Tenzing Hilary Airport. Since Island Peak is situated in the Everest region, catching a flight to Lukla is a prerequisite. The 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is an adventure, offering a unique experience in itself.

Following the traditional route to Everest Base Camp, which Tensing Norgay and Edmund Hilary took, we trek until we reach Dingboche. Departing from the path to Everest Base Camp at Dingboche, we proceed towards Chhukung. Afterward, we start from Chhukung to the Island Peak high camp, where the actual climbing adventure commences.


While on this journey, we will come across many villages rhododendron forest and if we are lucky enough we could see elusive wildlife high up in the Himalayas. Crossing through few valley, passing through high passes and navigating through icefalls, glaciers you will summit Island Peak. 

$2,800/person

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Surya Thapa Travel Consult
Surya Thapa

Travel Expert, Nepal

samsher
Samsher Parajuli

Travel Expert, Nepal

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Itinerary

Daily Schedule
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Day
1
Kathmandu Arrival.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Hotel.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast.
transport_icon Transport: Private Vehicle

Once you arrive at the Kathmandu airport one of our representative will welcome you. He will be holding PLA card with your name written in it. You will be taken to your hotel by a private vehicle. There will be small meeting regarding the trip.

Day
2
Lukla Flight & Hike Phadking (2652m).
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
transport_icon Transport: Flight/ Private Vehicle.

You will be transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu from where you will be catching the flight to Lukla. The 35 minutes flight is an adventure in itself.

Day
3
Phadking to Namche bazaar (3440m), 5/6 hour walk.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
transport_icon Transport: Flight/ Private Vehicle.

Following the trail with alpine forest alongside of Dudh Koshi River passing through Lorche Dovan suspension bridge we reach Namche bazaar. Namche was a historic trade hub for Tibetan as well as traders of Solukhumbu. During recent times you will find Namche as a modern town filled with shops, internet cafes and many more.

Day
4
First Acclimatization day.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
transport_icon Transport: Flight/ Private Vehicle.

Planned as spare day in order for your body to get acclimatized at the elevation of 3440 m as well as for upcoming days. Following your morning meal (breakfast), you will begin your hike towards Khumjung, starting at Namche Bazar and passing through Syangboche (3720m), which is home to a nearby local airport. As you climb up a hill, you'll be able to get a glimpse of Tengboche peak (6367m), Lhotse Peak (8414m), and Ama Dablam (6856m) for the first time.

Day
5
Namche to Tengboche (3860m), 5/6 hour walk.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
transport_icon Transport: Flight/ Private Vehicle.

The trekking path proceeds further into the Dudh Koshi Valley and leads to Punki Tangka. You will then ascend on the right side of the valley of Dudh Koshi to reach Tengboche Monastery (3860m), which is the main spiritual hub of Khumbu. Though the climb is a lengthy one, the sights of Mt Amadablam, and on clear days, Mt Everest and the adjacent peaks make it worthwhile. Once you've finished exploring Tengboche Monastery, you'll trek to Diboche and stay overnight at Rivendell Lodge.

Day
6
Diboche (4410m) 4/5 hour walk.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
transport_icon Transport: Flight/ Private Vehicle.

You'll hike through stunning forests and cross the Imja Kola River before reaching Pangboche (3900m). This day of trekking will be exceptional as you won't descend in altitude and will be treated to breathtaking views of mountains like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and more. From there, you'll continue on to Dingboche, which is also called the "Summer Valley."

Day
7
Acclimatization day two.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
transport_icon Transport: Flight/ Private Vehicle

During the second day of acclimatization, we will trek at an altitude of 5100m. After having breakfast, we will climb up Nagerjun Hill, which takes around 6 hours. From the top, you'll get a stunning vista of Lobuche East, Teboche, Tamsek, Kantega, and Ama Dablam. On days with clear visibility, Makalu can even be seen. After a brief rest, we'll head back to Dingboche. Spend the night in Dingboche and rest after having lunch.

Day
8
Trek to Lobuche (4910m), 5/6 hrs walk.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

We will arrive at Dughla after hiking through a broad valley and passing the Trekkers Aid Post in Pheriche, at an elevation of 4240m. The Himalayan Rescue Association supports the operation of the Aid Post, which provides medical assistance and consultation to trekkers. We will then climb higher in elevation and leave the valley behind to reach the yak grazing lands of Lobuche (4910m).

Day
9
Trek to Everest Base Camp (5160m), then return to Gorakshep, 5/6 hrs walk.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

You will hike to Everest Base Camp today. Today you won't gain much elevation, but going up and down will be exhausting. When you arrive at basecamp, you will be able to see the Khumbu icefall, where the Everest expedition begins. Later, we return to Gorakshep, which is located between base camp and Kalapatthar.

Day
10
Hike to Kalapatthar & trek back Dingboche, 6/7 walk.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

Today we start our day early and hike to Kalapattar, an amazing view point with spectacular views of Pumori, Nuptse, Lhotse, Everest, and the surrounding peaks. We then trek back to Gorakshep and enjoy hot breakfast while taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains. We descend to Lobuche after resting for a while.

Day
11
Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4730m/15,518ft) 3hrs.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

We take a slightly different route down to Dingboche from Lobuche. Then we make a slight ascent into the Chukkung Valley.

Day
12
Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak base camp (5087m/16,690ft)
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Tent Camp.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

From Chukkung we make a leisurely start following the Imja Valley with great views of Ama Dablam dominating the skyline and follow the moraines that flow from Lhotse (8501meters) towards the sand flats at Pareshaya Gyab. It is only a short distance from here to Base Camp, which we will reach in the mid-afternoon. Today is only 4 hours walking as we are becoming acclimatized to the thinning of air, from today the accommodation will be tented camp for next two days and you will be having camp food cooked by our professional cook.

Day
13
Climb Island Peak (6165m/20,226) and back to base Camp, 15hrs.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Tent Camp.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

Today is you most important day that you are going to do your final destination summit to Island Peak(6187m). Crossing the gully above the camp the trail makes a climb for another hour to a narrow ridge, leading on to the glacier. Here it is time to rope-up and put on our crampons as the most interesting part of the climb begins with the glacier crossing. This is followed by the steep snow slope that leads onto the summit ridge. This ridge is wonderfully airy and on reaching the summit we have stunning close-up views of the south face of Lhotse looming over us whilst in the other direction, there are more dramatic mountain views. We descend along the same route, down to base camp.

Day
14
Additional day in case of uncertainty on summit day.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Tent Camp.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

The day is actually planned for any mishaps that may occur on summit day. For example any emergency or weather issue. If you cannot summit the peak on the planned day then you will summit today. This day can also be used for the climber not well enough to make the summit on the desired day. If everything goes as planned then we do not require this day.

Day
15
Island peak base camp to Pangboche (3985m 6 hour).
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

Leaving the mountains behind us our descent takes us through various towns of Dingboche, Orsho, Shomare and Lower Pangboche to reach the suspension bridge over the Imja Khola River to ascend gradually through Debuche and then to Pangboche.

Day
16
Back to Namche Bazaar (3440m/11,286ft) 05hrs.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

We descend steeply from Pangboche to Phunki Thanka through a beautiful forest of juniper, rhododendron, and fir. We cross the Dudh Koshi River and ascend to Trashinga after a welcome break and perhaps a cup of tea. From here, the trail contours high above the valley to Shanasa, where we can visit Kunde and Khumjung villages before returning to Namche Bazaar, our overnight stop.

Day
17
Back to Lukla(2840m/9,317ft) 7hrs.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Guesthouse.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast.

The last day of trekking as tomorrow we will be catching flight to Kathmandu. Upon reaching Lukla you can enjoy the time reflecting on your achievement of summiting the peak. You can enjoy on Lukla wandering around or some drinks. You can thank Sherpa companions and enjoy farewell dinner with them.

Day
18
Fly Kathmandu from Lukla.
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Hotel.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast.
transport_icon Transport: Private Vehicle.

We will catch morning flight from Lukla, the 35 minute adventure flight will bring you back to Kathmandu. Upon landing on Kathmandu you will be driven to your hotel. Please don’t be angry if weather don’t permit to takeoff the flight.

Day
19
Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour (Optional day for Lukla flight.)
accomodation_icon Accomodation: Hotel
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast Included.

We will enjoy the day while engaging in sightseeing activity around the places inside Kathmandu valley. You will be visiting world heritage sites, Kathmandu durbar square as well as places of your choice, if you have any. Later in the evening you will be enjoying cultural dinner at one of the Nepalese restaurant.

Day
20
Departure.
meals_icon Meals: Breakfast.

One of the representative from Global Holidays Adventure will drop you at the international airport from where you will be catching the flight to the next destination.

Got any question about this trip ?

Feel free to reach out with us if you have any queries or inqueries regarding any trip

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Availablity

Clear Dates
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Inclusions

  • International & domestic airport transfers as per the itinerary.
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis on BB (Bed and Breakfast) plan.
  • 3 meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunch and Dinners with tea or coffee) during the trek and climbing period.
  • Full board Accommodation of Lodges, Guesthouses in Twin Sharing bases during the trek and tent will be available during the climbing period.
  • All camping equipment in base camp.
  • Flight Ticket from Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu for member and Staff.
  • Surface transportation will be available as per itinerary.
  • Trekking Permit (National Park entry fee).
  • TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System) Permit.
  • Island peak climbing Permit.
  • Necessary staff during the trekking and climbing period With Experience Guide and Porter.
  • 2:1 and 5:2 experienced Government license holder climbing guide during climbing period as per itinerary
  • Facility of Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all trekking staff.
  • Group medical supplies (First Aid medical kit will be available).
  • One tent will be available in the Base camp for 2 people on shared basis.
  • High altitude food and all climbing crew will be available above base camp.
  • Necessary fixed and dynamic ropes will be available during climbing period.
  • Necessary kitchen crew will be available in base camp.
  • All necessary paper works, office Service charge and Government Taxes.
  • Complete pre-departure information, flight ticket reconfirmation and extend visa service(if necessary).
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu before departure.
Excludes
  • International airfare and Nepal visa Fees.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Travel insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
  • All alcoholic and cold drinks.
  • Personal trekking and climbing Equipment.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on 'Price Includes' section

Climbing Sherpa Guides. 

Our team of climbing guides comprises local Sherpa’s from the Everest region, closely familiar with the area, were brought up in those areas. They earn their livelihood through climbing and hold senior support climber certifications from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA).

 

These individuals, with extensive experience summiting various mountains and are the backbone of our team. They skillfully set up ropes and determine climbing routes. Prepared to handle any challenges that may arise during the climb this individuals are built different. With a decade of successful operations, our highly experienced Sherpa Climbing guides are equipped to navigate the diverse conditions of the Himalayan region.

 

We also provide responsible porters to ensure the safekeeping of your belongings. Depending on your group size, we allocate an appropriate number of climbing guides to offer personalized attention and support, respecting your strengths and preferences. For those seeking one-on-one assistance, we do offer an optional support climber from base camp to summit, with a slight adjustment in cost. Our dedicated team ensures that all your trip needs are met. As a note, porters are limited to carrying 20 kg, so packing lightly is advisable.

Foods

You can have a choice of food available in the local tea houses. They offer variety of food including soups, dumplings, noodles, and many more. The place till Dingboche you can have a choice of food. On those place where teahouses are not available basecamps, high camp food are prepared fresh by the cooks and for such day you do not have a choice. They do offer alternative sometimes but not variety. However, we assure you we provide you with alpine dishes that meet the needs of human body and provides nutrients and energy in order to reach the destination safely.  \

Accommodation

The facilities of accommodation are pretty basic. Some place have rooms with attached bath whereas some place do not. Till place called Dingboche you will have rooms with attached baths. The bedroom are clean as well as the bed sheets. During the climb you have to stay on tented camps and sleep on sleeping bags.

 

Climbing permit

You will be needing some permits in order to summit the Mera peak. The cost of permit depends on the seasons as well. For spring season (March-April-May) will cost you USD 250 each whereas for autumn season (September-October-November) will cost you USD 125 each. Coming to winter season (December to February) will cost you USD 70 each and lastly for summer (June-July-August) will cost you USD 70 each as well.

They do charge USD 500 as garbage charge and this amount is taken by the company. Permits for national parks do require as well as local community fee. In case you do not bring your own garbage by yourself you will have to pay. During the trek you will be walking on trails of Sagarmatha National Park. The cost of national park permit is USD 30. The local community fee is NPR 2000 which used for betterment of trails.  


Lukla flight for island

The thrilling 35-minute flight from Kathmandu offers an exciting experience. Landing on one of the world's shortest yet commercial runways marks the beginning of your trek. Whether embarking on a climb or a trek in the Everest region, it all starts at Tenzing Hilary Airport in Lukla.

Situated in the middle of the mountains, the flight to Lukla offers breathtaking views, although it has always been a challenge due to the unpredictable mountain weather. Delays or cancellations of flights are everyday thing. Therefore, it is not worth worrying about factors beyond your control. It is advisable to plan a few extra days in your itinerary. In such event that the flight does not depart on your intended day, having extra days planned proves to be beneficial.

 

Most of the time you have option of taking helicopter to Lukla in order to start the trek but it’s really expensive. If you are planning to trek in Everest region you have to make up your mind for paying $350-$400 for a helicopter ride. We know it does not sound good but once you get stuck on some random remote place and flight don’t take off then only option is helicopter.

 

About Insurance

Mountaineering travel insurance offers protection for injuries incurred during mountaineering activities. It's worth noting that standard travel insurance policies commonly exclude coverage for mountaineering and other adventurous pursuits. When acquiring mountaineering or hiking insurance, it is vital to analyze the policy's specifics, as they often outline the maximum altitude covered by the plan.

 

The policy helps you recover from an emergency medical evacuation in the event of lost luggage or travel cancellation. Lately the domestic travel companies who operates guided trekking and expedition is only accept visitors, having travel insurance. And very important, Get insurance to cover the cost of rescue helicopters from the mountains in the event of a serious accident or altitude sickness.

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FAQs

How hard is peak climbing?
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Island peak is generally recommended for beginners who are ready to enter the world of mountaineering. Still, climbing the top of the island requires high-altitude trekking experience. The top of the island is a difficult climb at extreme altitudes with steep uphill and thin air to breathe. The base of the headwall is the most difficult part of the climb. Nevertheless, the climbing route is fixed with a fixed rope to the top.

Who are people that I am climbing with?
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You will be climbing with other like-minded people unless you have a group on your desired day. Experienced and knowledgeable local Sherpa guides who have been successful many times at the peak. Some major mountaineers who have climbed many mountains several times during their mountaineering career. Your guide will support you from the beginning, share important tips and teach you tricks. He also offers pre-climb training at the base camp the day before the summit. Many operators do not take this mountaineering tour seriously, putting your health and well-being at risk. Therefore, be careful when choosing your trek organizer.

When is the best time to climb the peak?
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It is possible to climb the Island Peak whole year except during the monsoon season, but the best time to climb the Island Peak is in spring and autumn. Spring is from March to early June, which is also the busiest mountaineering season of the year. September-November is the autumn season when the temperature is mild and the weather is nice. Climbers have tried to climb Island Peak even in winter in the past, but the frigid winters can be really dangerous for some. The summer season is rainy and you can't get a great view while climbing.

How tall is island peak?
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The island peak covers an altitude of 6160 m.

When is island peak located?
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Island Peak is situated in the Everest region of Nepal, on the Nepalese – Tibetan border. Island Peak is an extension of Lhotse and Everest. The ridge line drops off Lhotse and right onto the summit of Island Peak.

Can you see Everest from Island Peak?
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You might be able to see the Everest during the flight to Lukla if the weather is clear.

What the sources of drinking water during the climb?
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Drinking water will be provided in the teahouses during the journey up to the base camp, either from taps, boiling water, or bottled water. We also recommend using steriPEN or other water purification solutions. 

How to deal with emergency communication on the mountains?
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Because cell phones don`t always operate high in the mountains, we rely on a satellite phone carried by the climbing leader for emergency communications.

Do you need supplemental oxygen?
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No, supplemental oxygen is usually only used over 23,000 Feet or 8,000-meter mountains.

How long do climbers hike or climb every day?
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On usual trekking days, you will be walking for 5 - 6 hours a day covering 10km - 14 km. But on the summit day, your climb could last up to 8 - 9 hours since it is advised to go as slow as possible, using the right amount of energy for the long duration and inhaling as much air as possible.

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Travellers Reviews

S
Sebastian

Australia

Great experience of Island peak and Everest base camp

This is my second trip with Global. At first in October 2012 I had visited Annapurna base camp with my beloved and enjoyed a lot. I had extreme desire of Island peak climbing but it was not possible with my beloved. Now, I just success Island peak climbing and Everest base camp with my few group of friends. Adventure climbing in Nepal is totally different and challenging but well organizing of Global take care us every moment of our three weeks adventure trip without any obstacle. By the first visited I was really impressed by the service and organizing of Global. Again, this time I lead my friends and choose them without any hesitate. Specially thanks to Mr. Surya, Samsher Guide Tenzing and porters who helped us a lot to success amazing experience that will be stored deep in My heart for my grandchildren. Thank you Sebastian Cremor

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    $2,800 /person

    Book Now

    Talk to an expert

    Surya Thapa Travel Consult
    Surya Thapa

    Travel Expert, Nepal

    samsher
    Samsher Parajuli

    Travel Expert, Nepal

    Book Now, Pay Later

    Free Cancellation Policy

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