Island Peak climbing
At a Glance
  • Duration20 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Technically Challenging
  • Max. Altitude6189M
  • Group Size15
  • Trip StyleWalking & Climbing
  • StartsKathmandu
  • EndsKathmandu
  • Best TimeAutumn & Spring
Highlights
  • Revel in the breathtaking sight from the top of Island Peak. 
  • As if depending on an island in a glacial sea witness the grandeur of surrounding peaks consisting of the powerful Nuptse, Lhotse, as well as the yet undefeated Lhotse Middle Peak.
  • Conquer the iconic Island Peak, standing proudly in the Everest region, with its pyramid-shaped peak challenging climbers from around the world.
  • Marvel at the spectacular breathtaking views of the world's highest peaks, including the enormous Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, as well as Makalu.
  • Combine your climb with a classic trek to Everest Base Camp, giving an extensive Himalayan adventure and cultural immersion in the Khumbu region.
  • Hike to the famous Kala Patthar for a breathtaking sunrise over Everest, offering perfect acclimatization and a preface to the climb.
  • Navigate the significant Khumbu Glacier offering an exciting and awe-inspiring approach to the Island Peak Base Camp.
  • Immerse on your own in the rich Sherpa society as you explore the captivating Khumjung town, Namche Bazaar, and also Dingboche. 
  • Experience the friendliness of the Sherpa individuals as well as gain an understanding right into their customs.
  • Explore the picturesque Chukhung Valley bordered by towering peaks giving a relaxing picturesque setup before the climb.
  • Encounter technical climbing sections, consisting of a challenging ice wall surface including an adventurous plus skill-testing component to the ascent.
  • Establish a base camp at the foot of Island Peak, creating a unique atmosphere with like-minded climbers and the backdrop of soaring Himalayan peaks.
  • Reach the summit of Island Peak, having that sense of achievement and gaining valuable mountaineering experience in the heart of the Everest region.
Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is a sought-after climbing destination in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Island Peak is nestled between the Lhotse and Imja glaciers. It’s not far from Mount Everest itself. The mountain was named “Island Peak” in 1952 by Eric Shipton’s party because it resembled an island in a sea of ice. Island Peak Climbing in Nepal is the most wanted and most attractive climbing peak in the Khumbu Region. For the climber, mountaineers, and trekkers alike, a climb to Island Peak provides a great overview of the highest mountains in the region, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and many others. This peak offers an enjoyable climb the peak, also provides some of the most striking scenery in Khumbu. Start your journey with an awesome hill trip to Lukla an entrance to the Khumbu area. The breathtaking trip offers a mesmerizing intro to the sturdy surface that waits for you.
Experience Sherpa culture in Khumjung village, Namche Bazaar, and also Dingboche. Visit the legendary Tengboche Monastery and great views from Kala Patthar (5,545M) and Khumbu ice fall views from Everest Base Camp. Explore other activities in the Everest Region.

AMAZING VIEW FROM ISLAND PEAK

If the peak can be likened to an Island in a glacial sea, then the main land forms a semicircle of cliffs that rise in the north to the rugged summit of Nuptse ( 7879m/ 25850ft ), Lhotse ( 9501m/27870ft), Lhotse middle peak( 8410m/ 27590ft), as yet still unclimbed and Lhotse Shar ( 8383m/ 27503ft ). To the east, rising above the frozen waves of the Lhotse Shar glacier, is Cho polu( 6734m/ 22093ft ), beyond which can be seen the red granite mass of Makalu ( 8475m/ 27805ft).
To the south of the Imja glacier and icy flutings of Baruntse (7720m/ 25328ft) and the Amphu peaks lead the eye to the lofty pinnacle of Ama Dablam ( 6856m/ 22493ft ), which is like a giant sea – stack guarding the entrance to the glacial bay in which Island peak stands.

EXPLORING THE ROAD TO ISLAND PEAK CLIMBING

Island Peak Climbing, a journey that can be completed in approximately two weeks, offers an exhilarating adventure. The expedition’s duration may vary if alternative routes are chosen. The journey commences at Lukla, the gateway to Island Peak. From Lukla, the trek follows the Everest Base Camp route until Dingboche. From there, the path diverts to Chukkung and Chukkung Ri, bypassing Lobuche. The following day, you’ll arrive at the Island Peak base camp, where you’ll spend a day acclimatizing and undergoing pre-climbing training for the final ascent.
The summit route of Island Peak traces the classic Everest Base Camp trail. Major stops before the final ascent include Lukla, Namche, Phakding, Tengboche, Dingboche, Chhukung, Chhukung Ri, and Island Peak Base Camp. Here, you’ll prepare for the final climb and learn to use climbing gear and equipment under the guidance of your climbing leader.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL OF ISLAND PEAK CLIMBING

Island Peak is an ideal challenge for both novice climbers and seasoned alpinists, offering opportunities to refine mountaineering skills. From the summit of Island Peak, climbers are rewarded with stunning views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Baruntse, and other surrounding peaks.
The Island Peak Climbing is designed for first-time climbers aiming for their first Himalayan summit. This 20-day journey allows you to hike to EBC and safely climb Island Peak. Island Peak Climbing introduces you to one of Nepal’s popular peaks in the Everest region, providing the perfect conditions to sharpen your climbing skills.
The climb, while mostly straightforward, does feature a long stretch of 40 to 50-degree snow that necessitates a fixed-line. While some technical climbing knowledge is required, extensive experience isn’t mandatory. You’ll become acquainted with terms like cows’ tails, jumars, fig 8s, and screwgates during the trek.
Altitude sickness is a potential risk due to the rate of elevation gain, making acclimatization essential. It’s advisable to spend several days at higher elevations before attempting the climb. Experienced Sherpa guides are recommended for the Island Peak climb, which can be undertaken as an extension to the Everest Base Camp hike.

BEST SEASON OF ISLAND PEAK CLIMBING

The optimal months for embarking on an Island Peak Climbing expedition are September, October, and November in autumn as well as March, April, and May in spring. These periods are clear, warm weather, making them ideal for such activities. It’s important to note that these months also coincide with the peak trekking and travel seasons, so expect to encounter numerous fellow climbers and trekkers along the way.
We need to have careful consideration of the climate and weather while climbing peaks, along with the time of the day that we climb and descend. Normally, the final climb starts very early in the morning (as early as 3 am), to make it to the top early and return before the daily wind gusts turn the mountain cloudy and damp.
Our itinerary is meticulously crafted to ensure that we reach our destination while taking all of the aforementioned factors into account. This careful planning enhances the overall climbing experience and increases the chances of a successful expedition.

HAT Representative will be waiting with your name plate just outside the International Airport in Kathmandu. After your arrival, we will organize your transportation to the designated hotel in Kathmandu. Spend the afternoon browsing the beautiful streets of Thamel or visit the nearby Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, we will meet for welcome dinner and tour briefing.

  • Max. Altitude:1300m
  • Accommodation:3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Meals:Dinner

From Kathmandu, we will take a 45-minute towards Lukla. Lukla flight is unique due to the stunning mountain views and landing at one of world's highest altitude airstrip.Lukla is a bustling town with shops, restaurants and facilities for guests. After some rest, we will start trekking towards Phakding village. It will take 3-4 hours of trekking according to the pace. Phakding is larger than Lukla and is equipped with restaurants, tea-houses, bars and restaurants for trekkers.

  • Max. Altitude:2880m
  • Accommodation:Tea-house/ Phakding
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Wake up to a beautiful sunrise at Phakding. After breakfast, we start the trek following the trails. Encounter local people, children, yaks and fellow trekkers as you move through Sagarmatha National Park and a few registration posts held up by local police. Cross high suspension bridge and climb until you reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest. Namche is also housed with various accommodation, food and hangout facilities.

  • Max. Altitude:3445m
  • Accommodation:Tea-house/ Namche Bazaar
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We take to spend the day in Namche Bazaar to adjust physically to the high altitude, referred as acclimatization. Acclimatization helps adopt our body to the increasing altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.Namche has Tibetan market selling clothes and cheap Chinese goods with the weekly wholesale market to browse. Even though we are acclimatizing, we will still need to stay active. So let's hike up to the famous Everest View Hotel and back

  • Max. Altitude:3962m
  • Accommodation:Tea-house/ Namche Bazaar
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Our destination for the day is Tengboche which takes about 5-6 hours trek from Namche Bazaar.After breakfast, we will start the day's trek north-east. Tengboche monastery and school established by Sir Edmund Hillary in Khumjung Village are definite highlights to look out for. Cross the river before continuing uphill towards Tengboche. Tengboche provides a great view of Mount Ama Dablam. Enjoy the sunset over Mount Everest and stars in a clear night.

  • Max. Altitude:3860m
  • Accommodation:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Meals:Tea-house/ Tengboche

After breakfast, we start our journey down the trail and crossing a bridge. Along the trails we will see yaks, locals and even wild animals that stroll around the Sagarmatha National Park.This day includes 5-6 hours long trek through villages Tengboche and Pangboche to Dingboche located alongside Imja River. This beautiful trail is so easy to fall in love with because of its extreme scenic beauty. Stunning view of Ama Dablam will increase the enthusiasm as we reach the village of Dingboche.

  • Max. Altitude:4250m
  • Accommodation:Tea-house/ Dingboche
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Required rest and acclimatization day in Dingboche.

  • Accommodation:Tea-house/ Dingboche
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

With our trek being 2-4 hours long, our route for the day is from Dingboche to Lobuche.With rocky pathways and small settlement along, Lobuche nonetheless has beautiful scenarios. As you trek upwards, you will see another side of Ama Dablam, but just as beautiful. The next destination is Thukla and later to Lobuche. Early dinner and rest as we prepare for the big day tomorrow.

  • Max. Altitude:4900m
  • Accommodation:Tea-house/ Lobuche
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Our journey from Lobuche leads us to yet another Sherpa settlement, Gorakshep after 6-7 hours trek. This is a popular stop for trekkers. Nuptse, Cholatse, Lobuche, and Pumori overlook the Lobuche village as we approach very near to the Everest Base Camp including Majestic Mount Everest.

  • Max. Altitude:5150m
  • Accommodation:Tea-house/ Gorakhshep
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Trek to Everest Base Camp (5363m/17595ft) and back to Gorekshep. Walking 5:30 hours, O/N at guest house, AP plan

  • Max. Altitude:5563m
  • Accommodation:Tea-house/ Gorakhshep
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking up to Kalapathar(5545m/18192ft) and overnight at Dingboche(4410m/14468ft). Walking 6 hours, O/N at guest house, BB plan

  • Max. Altitude:5545m

Dingboche to Island peak base camp( 5050m/15291ft) walking 6 hours, O/N at Tented camp, AP plan

  • Max. Altitude:5050m

    Summit (6189m/ 20305ft) and back to Island peak base camp. O/N at Tented camp, AP plan

    • Max. Altitude:6189m

    Island peak base camp to Lower Panbuche( 3985m/12066ft). Walking 6 hours, O/N at guest house, AP plan

    • Max. Altitude:3985m

    Lower Panbuche to Namche (3440m/11286ft). Walking 5:30 hours, O/N at guest house, AP plan

    • Max. Altitude:3440m

    Namche to Phakding (2610mtrs/8563ft). Walking 5 hours, O/N at guest house, AP plan

    • Max. Altitude:2610m

    Phakding to Lukla(2840m/9317ft). Walking to 3:30 O/N at guest house, AP plan

    • Max. Altitude:2840m

    Taking a 35-minutes flight back to Kathmandu, today is our final day here. This day is ideal for visiting Swayambhunath Stupa and exploring local streets Thamel. Taking a walk through Thamel, a busy tourist spot, buying souvenirs from here is the pretty good option.

    • Accommodation:3-Star Hotel / Kathmandu
    • Meals:Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

    It is our parting time. Hoping you are intrigued by this adventurous trek to Mt Everest, we will be ready to accompany you on any of your future journey to Nepal.

    • Meals:Breakfast

    Service Details

    Includes
    •  Private Arrival & Departure transfers on both domestic and international flights.
    •  Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu on a Double Room and breakfast basis as per the itinerary.
    •  Full board meals while trekking (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner).
    •  Accommodation in a teahouse or lodge while trekking.
    •  Accommodation in a Tented camp while climbing.
    •  Welcome Dinner as listed in the itinerary.
    •  All Domestic flights and airport tax as listed in the itinerary.
    •  Private transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek as applicable.
    •  Peak Climbing Permit / Royalty and other government tax.
    •  Well trained Climbing guide
    •  All required Personal and Group Climbing gear: Plastic climbing boot, crampons, climbing rope, ice axe.
    •  Hiking Adventure Treks - sleeping bag, duffel bag, etc for use during the trip, Plastic garbage bags.
    •  Comprehensive First Aid Kit. Respective region (Everest) trekking map, TIMS Card.
    •  Well-experienced Climbing guide with all his allowance and expenses.
    •  Necessary Porters to carry all personal gear and group equipment.
    •  Proper Insurance of all staff including porters.
    •  Warm clothing & trekking gear for staff including porters: Gortex jacket & trousers, fleece jacket and pants, trekking shoes/boots, woolen hat, gloves, shocks, sunglasses, etc.
    •  Peak climbing certificates issued from the respective body of Nepal Government. Comprehensive pre-departure information and trip dossiers
    Excludes
    •  Nepal entry visa ($40 USD).
    •  Sleeping Bag Rental $12 and Down Jacket $12 if needed.
    •  All the meals are included on the trek but we only include breakfast while you are in Kathmandu.
    •  We suggest a tip for the guide and porter after the trek - Plan on a at least $80 (more will be appreciated).
    •  We don't include drinking water on the trek which you can buy a number of places for between $1 and $3 a bottle (it gets more expensive towards base camp).
    •  A better solution is to buy water tablets in Kathmandu for around $2 and treat the water (your guide can help you find the good places to fill your water bottle).
    •  The other things not included on the trek are like Wifi, charging batteries and hot showers.
    •  Wifi is available in some tea houses for $3 to $5 an hour.
    •  Hot Showers are also available in a few for around $4 and charging costs about $1.50 an hour.
    •  Unforeseen cost due to flight cancellation, weather conditions etc.
    •  You are responsible for extra hotel nights ($30/night) and meals in Kathmandu for any extra days in Nepal,
    Essential Information

    Climbing Island Peak demands a comprehensive set of mandatory gear to ensure the safety and success of the ascent. Here's a detailed list of essential equipment and clothing necessary for Island Peak climbing:

    Clothing: Base Layers:

    • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms to regulate body temperature.
    • Insulation: Insulating layers like fleece or down jackets provide warmth during colder conditions.
    • Shell Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants to protect against rain, snow, and harsh winds.
    • Headwear: Climbing hat or beanie to retain heat, a sun hat for protection, and a balaclava or buff for face coverage.
    • Handwear: Insulated gloves for warmth and dexterity, and waterproof shell gloves to protect against wet conditions.
    • Footwear: Insulated and waterproof mountaineering boots suitable for crampons, with warm socks and gaiters to keep out snow.

    Climbing Equipment:

    • Helmet: A climbing helmet for head protection against falling debris and accidents.
    • Harness: An alpine climbing harness for securing ropes and ensuring safety during ascents and descents.
    • Crampons:  Crampons are compatible with your boots for traction on icy surfaces.
    • Ice Axe: A lightweight ice axe for balance, self-arrest, and creating secure anchors on steep terrain.
    • Ascender: Ascenders for efficient and safe progress during steeper sections of the climb.
    • Carabiners: Locking and non-locking carabiners for securing equipment and creating anchor points.
    • Rappel Device: A reliable rappel device for controlled descents.
    • Trekking Poles: Adjustable trekking poles to provide stability and support during the climb.
    • Slings and Prusik Loops:
    • Nylon slings and prusik loops for creating anchors, extending protection, and ascending ropes.

    Safety and Navigation:

    • First Aid Kit: A compact and well-stocked first aid kit for emergencies.
    • Climbing Helmet with Headlamp: A headlamp for visibility during early morning starts and late descents.
    • Navigation Tools: Map, compass, and GPS device to aid in navigation through the mountainous terrain.
    • Altitude-related Equipment: Oxygen masks, hoses, and regulators if required for high-altitude climbs.
    • Personal Items: Sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen, lip balm, and a water bottle for hydration.

    Guide and support team for Island Peak climbing

    Hiking Adventure Treks have sherpa climbing/ expedition guides working throughout the year for different mountains, and trekking peaks in different regions of Nepal. Our sherpa climbing guides are experienced and certified by the Nepal Mountaineering Association and Nepal National Mountain Guide Association who have gained a lot of safety knowledge and Mountains.
     

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