Island Peak Climbing

Price

USD 2237

Trip Duration

17 days

Trip Grade

Difficult & Challenging

Highest Altitude

6189

Accommodation

Tea House, Hotel, Tent

Transportation

Car, Flight

Group Size

1-10

Best Season

March-May, September-November

Island Peak Climbing Introduction

Island Peak Climbing

Imja Tse, also known as Island Peak, is arguably the most popular climbing peak in Nepal. It is ideal for climbers with a range of experience, including their first climb.

Your climbing guides will teach you to use the climbing gear that we assigned to you at base camp, and your safety is a number one priority. Our guide to climber ratio when climbing is 1 on 3 or 1 on 4 depending on climber’s experience level.

The action begins with a flight into Lukla airport to Everest and a trekking holiday through such highlights as Namche Bazaar and the highest monastery in the world, Tengboche!

After 2 nights at Dingboche and the hike to Ngarshyang Hill we will have an incredible panoramic view of the Imja Valley and surrounding areas. After this hike to get to approximately (5000) your body will have enough time to acclimatize to the altitude and then we will proceed to slowly trek toward Chukkung.

Island Peak Base Camp has limited options for tented accommodation as climbers prepare for final ascent. Climbers will start about 1 am to avoid the high winds and are rewarded with one of the most stunning sunrises they will ever see across the Himalayas.

After descending and trekking to Dingboche its a return trek to Lukla following the same trek. With so many trekkers descending upon the Everest region, we also spend time getting to know the local from the Dingboche and Chukung area and ensures we use a local guide with extensive experience of Island Peak, with local knowledge.

Key Highlights of Island Peak Climbing

 1. Stunning Himalayan Views

Climbing Island Peak offers you the views of some of the highest peaks in the world, which will leave you speechless at the views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu ,and Ama Dablam. If, you are lucky you may see Mount Everest from the Island Peak summit at 6189 meters (weather permitting). The 360-degree view from then summit being one of the best views in the Himalayas.

2. Combination of Trekking and Climbing

This trip is a fantastic option or hybrid of trekking and climbing. Many climbers will use the Island Peak expedition with the Everest Base Camp trek to time their acclimatizing process for when they actually try their climb, and then to have bigger fun. This is a trip for someone who has already completed trekking already, and now is looking to have a try at climbing at altitude.

 3. Introductory Peak for Beginners

Island Peak is sometimes seen as a good entry level climbing option to be your first climbing experience as you leap into Mountaineering. The skills are basic mountaineering skills, and mostly nothing beyond the basics – fix ropes, crampons and ice axes. Provided you have planned well, tried to do some focused fitness training and complete with target (to aim for) then I think you should be good to go.

 4. Cultural Immersion in Villages

The route to Island peak takes you through some really great  villages Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and Chhukung. You will get some experience of the Himalayan culture in the 400 year old Monastery, spinning prayer wheels, meet the incredible locals and swap stories with them. The cultures do contribute value and another level to your unique travel experience.

5. Remote Wilderness and Glacial Terrain

Island Peak climbs are in the Khumbu region, which is just too far for Yeti feet, in all frigid, glacial, dolomitic rock ridge and ice wall conditions! Climbers will be crisscrossing crevasses and dipping their boots onto the Lhotse Glacier – you exist and feel wild wilderness of the Himalaya! Every step of trek is all types of challenges, unreconstructed mountain terrain, and motivating beauty.

Conclusion

Island Peak Climbing is absolutely a great introduction to Himalayan climbing, with high altitude adventure, cultural talent, and aesthetic beauty, all together in a fun adventure at high altitude with fast, as in, you can’t catch your breath views of some of the highest mountains on the planet, all challenging but low and accessible and a welcoming undertaking with purposeful villages. If your probably going to use it as training for higher mountain expedition, it won’t be the same once in a life time experience; Island Peaks realistically represents down to earth, fun, and a nostalgia inside Nepal.

FAQs

1. How Island Peak Climbing hard?

Island Peak is considered moderate. It is by no means an extremely scientific or technical climb, but it does have some steep sections. You will experience glacier crossings and we will have to use ropes and crampons.

2. What is the best time to climb Island Peak?

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and good climbing conditions. Avoid the monsoon (June–August) and winter (December–February) due to harsh weather.

3. Do I need previous climbing experience?

Not necessarily. While previous trekking experience is important, Island Peak is often recommended as a first climbing experience. However, some basic mountaineering training, especially in using crampons, harnesses, and ice axes, is highly beneficial.

4. Do you need climbing experience to attempt Island Peak?

Not necessarily. Island Peak is typically documented as a first climbing experience there is great value in knowing personal experience trekking at high altitude. Besides having personal experience basic mountaineering training and climbing foundation training of using crampons, harnesses, and ice axes will support you in having a better climbing experience.

5. What permits are included under the Island Peak Climb?

The best climbing seasons for Island Peak are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these seasons you can be assured a weather window of longer days, more stability, fair weather, more sunshine, and good climbing condition. The heyday of Monsoons (June–August) and winter months (December–February) cannot be considered climbing conditions as they generally bring unfavourable and harsh conditions.

 

Highlights

  • Island Peak Climbing 6189m
  • Trek to the majestic Himalayas
  • Lukla Airport Land & take off
  • Namche Bazar
  • Tengboche Monastery
  • Sherpa Villages & Hospitality
  • Mesmerising Views of Everest Himalayas & surrounding peaks

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1: - Arriving in Kathmandu
  • Day 2: - Kathmandu to (Ramechhap)- Lukla (2840m) - Phakding (2610m)
  • Day 3: - Phakding – Namche Bazar (3445m).
  • Day 4: - NAMCHE BAZZAR- ACCLAMATIZATION DAY
  • Day 5: - NAMCHE BAZAAR TO TENGBOCHE/DEBOCHE
  • Day 6: - TENGBOCHE TO DINGBOCHE
  • Day 7: - DINGBOCHE: REST AND ACCLIMATIZATION DAY
  • Day 8: - DINGBOCHE TO CHUKKUNG
  • Day 9: CHUKKUNG TO ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP
  • Day 10: Reserve Day for Contingency
  • Day 11: SUMMIT DAY THAN TREK TO CHUKKUNG
  • Day 12:CHUKKUNG TO TENGBOCHE
  • DAY 13 - TENGBOCHE TO NAMCHE
  • DAY 14 - NAMCHE TO PHAKDING AND LUKLA
  • DAY 15 - LUKLA TO (Ramechhap) KATHMANDU
  • Day 16:- Sightseeing exploration(city tour) in Kathmandu
  • DAY 17:- DEPARTURE DAY

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: - Arriving in Kathmandu

Clints arriving at Kathmandu Airport
Island Peak Climbing clints arrival at Kathmandu Airport

Welcome to the land of the Himalayas with an amazing culture & world’s one of the friendliest countries. We will come to pick you up at the Airport and then transfer you to the Hotel in Kathmandu, evening we are having a group briefing & Discussion (5 PM) for the trip/checklist & last-minute gear preparing for the trip.

Day 2: - Kathmandu to (Ramechhap)- Lukla (2840m) - Phakding (2610m)

Prayer Wheel near Ghat Village
Ghat Monastery

Early Morning Drive to Ramechhap airport then fly to Lukla airport by Twin Otter aircraft, the most renowned mountain airstrip in the world. On the flight you watch the rugged foothills give way to the snowline of the Himalayas.

 Many of the world’s highest mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Makalu & Cho-you (the world’s highest Himalayan range) may sometimes be seen from the window of the plane. Once you are in Lukla this high-altitude trek begins by descending towards Phakding. Passing the small villages like Chiplung, Chaurikharka, Thadakosi, Ghat, etc. We stayed there at Phakding. Approximately 3 hour’s walk

Day 3: - Phakding – Namche Bazar (3445m).

Group photo at Phakding Before leaving for Namche Nazar
Group Photo Taken at Phakding Hotel

The first day may have been surprisingly long for some, but staying at Phakding allows you to begin the ascent to Namche Bazaar first thing in the morning. Passing beautiful villages like Zamfutte, Toktok, Benkar, Monjo & Jorsalle gives you plenty of great photo stops & beautiful mountain scenery. You are having the Lunch at Jorsalle right after entering into the Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO) at Monjo.

At about halfway up the Namche hill after the Hillary Bridge, A gap in the trees allows us to spy on Everest for the first time. If the weather is clear the top of the South-West Face will be just visible behind the long Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. A plume can often be seen stretching away from the very summit.

Namche is the most prosperous and the largest town in the Khumbu. A bazaar (A local market) is held here every Saturday. The wares on display include grains and vegetables, tennis shoes and trinkets as well as hand-woven aprons and Tibetan boots.

The Sherpa used to host traders from the foothills, as well as Tibetans from over the border. Thamserku (6648m), Kwangde Ri (6187m), and Khumbila (5707m) surround the natural bowl that Namche sits in. Approx. 6/7 hours hike.

Day 4: - NAMCHE BAZZAR- ACCLAMATIZATION DAY

At National Park Museum with the view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse on the Background
At National Park Museum

You hike to the National Park headquarters after breakfast to see the magnificent view of Mt. Everest & 360-degree mountain view. Then hike to Syangbuche airstrip for superb views of the Himalayas & lower Dudhkoshi valley. See the mountains like Thamserku, Kangitega, Kusum Kangaroo, Kwangde (etc. Approx. 4 hours walk.

Day 5: - NAMCHE BAZAAR TO TENGBOCHE/DEBOCHE

In front of Tyangboche Monastery where you can see the Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Amadablem just Infront of you
Tyangboche Monastery

Breakfast in Namche Bazaar fuels us for another day of trekking towards Everest Base Camp. Breathtaking views of the Himalayas – Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama-Dablam, Thamserku, cholatse, Tabuche Kwangde, etc. And some of the highlights not be missed. A short drop takes us to the riverside at Phungi Thanga then it’s across the Dudhkoshi River upwards through the forest pass. 

Brace your legs for a continual uphill trek at this point, alternating between a gradual grade and some seriously steep ground! Our destination, Tengboche, is known as one of the most beautiful places in the Everest region. Its views which include Ama Dablam, are legendary. We’ll stop in on the Tengboche monastery, which is one of the largest in Khumbu. Nourish your spirit with a guided tour of the monastery grounds, followed by chanting and prayer with the resident Buddhist monks. Stay at Tengboche: 3,860m

Day 6: - TENGBOCHE TO DINGBOCHE

Dingboche village & the mighty Lhotse
Dingboche

Your trek today kicks off with a walk through the rhododendron forest to Deboche followed by a bridge over the raging Imja Khola River. We’ll pass the valley wall and then traverse the plains to Pangboche village, the biggest settlement of Sherpas in the region.

Enjoy a great opportunity to observe a typical Sherpa village and have lunch with the locals at Somare Village about an hour’s walk from Pangboche. Our afternoon trek will be a difficult one, as the landscape gives way to dry & above tree line deserted mountains and we hike towards Dingboche(4,410m).

Day 7: - DINGBOCHE: REST AND ACCLIMATIZATION DAY

Makalu Range from Nagkarsyang Hill near Dingboche
Makalu & Island Peak range

This is your chance to rest up before the last leg of our adventure! Spend a full day exploring Dingboche and the surrounding valleys, the latter of which links with Island Peak, the high passes of Amphu Lapcha, and Makalu Barun National Park.

Taking an optional trek by hiking up to Ngarshyang hill (5150m) to see the valleys will pay off in rewarding views, but taking it easy is the most important thing today. You’ll need your rest for another day of ascent tomorrow. Stay here at Dingboche Again (4410m).

Day 8: - DINGBOCHE TO CHUKKUNG

Glaciers

Take a gentle ascent northeast of Dingboche village and hit the trail towards Chukkung. After leaving Dingboche you feel the altitude gain as Chukkung lies at a higher elevation. From the trail, you get marvelous views of Island Peak and Lhotse. You lie surrounded by giant mountains, rolling glaciers, and glacier moraines.

  A handful of lodges lie scattered on a desolate but beautiful landscape. Chukkung lies below the Island Peak Base Camp and during the climbing season, it’s usually filled with climbers attempting to summit Island Peak. Head to a teahouse and take a rest. Overnight in Chukkung (4730m)

Day 9: CHUKKUNG TO ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP

We will reach one step closer to our destination today. After walking for 4 to 5 hours from Chhukung village, we reach the Base camp (5150m) of Island Peak. We rest for the remainder of the day to acclimatize to the higher altitude. Do some side trips for better acclimatization & your climbing guide will teach you about using the climbing equipment on the climbing tomorrow. Stay at Island Peak Base Camp in Tent(5150m).

Day 10: Reserve Day for Contingency

The weather in the Himalayas is quite unpredictable. Hence, it is good to take on a contingency day considering unfavorable weather or any other obstructions that might delay the group in climbing the peak. If the group summits the peak on the planned date and everything goes well, this day could be cut off from the itinerary. 

Day 11: SUMMIT DAY THAN TREK TO CHUKKUNG

High camp of Island Peak
High Camp

Finally, the most awaited day has come, climbing Island Peak(6189m). We start very early in the morning as we have to reach the top as early as possible because, after the afternoon there may be high winds that will make climbing more challenging. The ascent will be somewhat difficult as we have to climb through the steep and uneven terrain. And after a lot of time pushing and pulling, we will finally reach the Island Peak Summit yeah!!!! 

We will spend a significant amount of time on the peak taking in and appreciating the spectacular scenery and adventure before returning to the base camp. From the base camp, we will further walk down to Chhukung for the night. Stay at Chukkung (4730m) . 

Day 12:CHUKKUNG TO TENGBOCHE

looking dawn from Nagkarshyang Hill near Dingboche, see the mountains like Thamserku, Kangtega, Kongde etc
Looking down from Dingboche

With the immense pleasure of conquering the most beautiful Island Peak, we retrace our trip back the same route to Tengboche where there is a beautiful Buddhist Monastery. Today, we celebrate our success in climbing Island Peak once again we reach the village of Tengboche. stay at Tengboche(3860m). 

DAY 13 - TENGBOCHE TO NAMCHE

Everest & Lhotse from above Namche bazat
Snap of Everest & Lhotse

The walk from Tengboche back to Namche is mainly short & easy walk-ups & downhill. Down to Phungi Thanga then uphill toward the Kyanjuma. We’ll be in Namche Bazar by lunchtime. Another day in Namche Bazar to celebrate, you can visit bars, bakery, and cafes to have a bit different taste. Stay at Namche Bazar (3440m). 

DAY 14 - NAMCHE TO PHAKDING AND LUKLA

Exist from Sagarmatha National Park
Group Picture at Permit Office

After early breakfast, we trek toward the Hillary Suspension Bridge and then pass through several local villages. Our arrival in Lukla brings an evening in our last Tea House and, traditionally, a party with your trekking crew, you made it! Thanks to great teamwork and perseverance, you’ve accomplished a physical feat of which others only dream. This is your last night on the mountain, which can be bittersweet. 

DAY 15 - LUKLA TO (Ramechhap) KATHMANDU

An Aeroplane is ready to take of from Lukla Airport
Lukla Airport

In the morning, you’ll have a brief flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (Ramechhap than 4-5 Hours drive), where your journey both begins and ends. You’ll transfer to your hotel upon landing for some much-needed solo rest and reflection after your trek conquering the Himalayas. We’ll reunite in the evening for a farewell dinner at one of the best Nepalese restaurants in town, where we’ll be eager to hear your feedback on the trip. 

Day 16:- Sightseeing exploration(city tour) in Kathmandu

Patan Durbar Square sightseeing
Patan Durbar Square sightseeing

Today is the exploration of the city of temples, gods, culture, art, architecture, and traditional capital city of this Himalayan country. Out of the 10 World Heritage Sites in Nepal, 7 of them are inside this beautiful capital city making the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage sites, As visiting all of these historic and religious landmarks in a single day is not possible, you will explore 3-4 of these magnificent marvels in this day. Visiting Swyambhunath Temple(Monkey temple), Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath temple & Bouddhanath Stupa.

 

DAY 17:- DEPARTURE DAY

Clints getting Trip completion certificate & Gifts from Happy Mountain Nepal
Clints getting Trip completion certificate & Gifts

It’s your last day in Nepal, the end of your Island Peak trekking & climbing trip! Grab some breakfast, and then take in some last-minute shopping in Kathmandu. We’ll make sure you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport with plenty of time before your flight home. At this time, we’ll say we see you again and bid you farewell, armed with warm memories and gorgeous photos to show your loved ones.

Includes

  • Simple tea houses in trekking on a twin-sharing basis with 3 times of meals. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner with 3 cups of tea each)
  • Two-night tented accommodation with a simple meal
  • An experienced professional climbing guide for Island peak climbing with all permits, climber, helpers at Base Camp with their salary, meal & Insurance
  • Climbing equipment like Summit Boot. Ice exe, harness, jammer, crampons, etc.
  • Garbage security deposit (SPCC) for permit ($500)
  • A professional trekking guide for the Trek & necessary number of porters (2:1) with their salary, meal, transportation, insurance & accommodation. 
  • Necessary permits, Tim card & Local Municipalities fees
  • Both way flight Kathmandu (Ramechhap)-Lukla-Kathmandu (Ramechhap)
  • 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu on BB basis & simple lodges on trek with full board meal.
  • All grounded transportation like pick up and drop (domestic/Intl). 
  • A group medical kit with an oximeter

Excludes

  • All Kinds of beverages. 
  • All extra expenses such as shopping and trekking gear. 
  • International flights. 
  • Early arrival / late departure. 
  • Travel insurance (you must purchase one for Island Peak Climbing before starting the trek) 
  • Rescue evacuation if needed (it can be helped to arrange)
  • Tips for driver, guide& porters. 
  • If the plan is changed by any other problem such as a landslide, political disturbance, changing plan, or cancellation of flight. Or the things not mentioned above

Trip Map

Island Peak Climbing is a comprehensive guide that provides detailed information and instructions for climbers interested in conquering one of Nepal’s most iconic peaks. With a formal tone, the document covers essential aspects such as route planning, equipment requirements, and safety precautions. Whether you are an experienced mountaineer or a novice adventurer, this guide offers valuable insights to ensure a successful and memorable expedition.

Gear & Equipments

Clothing

1) Trekking Trousers

2) Trekking shirts

3) Inner Thermals (Top/bottom)

4) Breathable Underwear

5) Fleece Jacket

6) Windproof jacket

7) Dawn jacket

8) Trekking Towel

Head Gears

1)  Sun Hat

2) Head Band

3) Buff (snood)

Hand Gear

1) Inner Gloves

2) Outer Gloves

Foot Gears

1) Hiking Boots

2) Hiking shocks

3) Thermal shocks

4) Gaiters

Bags

1) Duffle Bag*

2) Backpack (rucksack for day pack)

3) A few Ziploc/ waterproof bags

Equipment

1) Sleeping Bag*

2) Sleeping bag liner (if you rent)

3) Trekking Pole*

4) Sunglasses

5) Water bottle or Hydration Bladder

6) Headlamps

7) Camera/video camera

8) Water purification tablets*/ filters/ UV light

9) Diamox/Dzolamode*

10) Sunscreens

11) Toiletries

12) If you take any specific medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Island Peak?
Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal. It stands at an elevation of 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) and is located in the Everest region, near the base camp of Mount Everest.
Do I need prior mountaineering experience to climb Island Peak?
While prior mountaineering experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory for climbing Island Peak. However, participants should have a good level of physical fitness and be comfortable with trekking at high altitudes.
What is the best time to climb Island Peak? A: The best time to
Island Peak is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to November. These months generally offer stable weather conditions and clear skies, making it ideal for climbing.
How long does it take to climb Island Peak?
The duration of the Island Peak Expedition typically ranges from 16 to 20 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and weather conditions. This duration includes acclimatization days, trekking to base camp, summit day, and descent.
What permits are required for climbing Island Peak?
Climbing Island Peak requires obtaining permits from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) as well as a climbing permit from the Government of Nepal. Additionally, trekkers need to have the necessary trekking permits for the region they will be traversing.
What are the accommodation options during the Island Peak Expedition?
Accommodation during the expedition includes teahouses, lodges, and camping. In lower altitudes, trekkers can stay in teahouses and lodges along the trail. As climbers ascend to higher altitudes, camping becomes more common.
What equipment do I need for climbing Island Peak?
Essential equipment includes mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet, sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, and appropriate clothing layers for varying weather conditions. It's essential to have proper gear for cold temperatures and high altitudes.
Is altitude sickness a concern during the Island Peak Expedition?
Yes, altitude sickness is a potential concern during the Island Peak Expedition due to the high altitude. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and gradual ascent are crucial in minimizing the risk of altitude-related illnesses.
Do I need a guide for the Island Peak Expedition?
While it is not mandatory to have a guide for the Island Peak Expedition, it is highly recommended, especially for those without prior experience in high-altitude trekking and mountaineering. A guide can provide valuable assistance, support, and navigation expertise throughout the journey.
What is the difficulty level of climbing Island Peak?
Climbing Island Peak is considered to be of moderate difficulty. The ascent involves technical sections such as using fixed ropes, crossing glaciers, and navigating crevasses. However, with proper training, preparation, and guidance, climbers with basic mountaineering skills can successfully summit Island Peak.

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