Overview
Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse is one of the easiest, most accessible, and reasonably priced climbing peaks in Nepal. Island Peak, which is 6,189m (20,305ft) above sea level, offers high-altitude climbing opportunities as well as spectacular views of the Chukung Glacier, Everest, Makalu, Mt. Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan ranges and landscapes. It reaches the southern ridge of Lhotse Shar and is connected by a narrow col, which resembles an island in a sea of ice, providing you with the opportunity to sharpen your climbing techniques.
You will treasure the unforgettable sense of accomplishment and stunning views of the surrounding area and Himalayan range by climbing this trekking peak. This expedition-style climb-rated Alpine PD+ is generally not technically difficult but can be physically challenging, thereby making it ideal for new climbers. Therefore, for a successful expedition, a good level of physical fitness and a moderate level of technical climbing knowledge is required. The trip to Island Peak begins with a 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (the gateway to Everest Base Camp) and proceeds until we reach our final destination.
From the summit, you will witness the astonishing panorama of the mountain Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,501m), Lhotse Central (8,410m), and Lhotse Shar (8,383m), which form a semicircle in the north, as well as Ama Dablam (6,812m) and Baruntse (7,129m) in the south and Makalu (8,475m) in the east.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After having a healthy breakfast we will catch a morning flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara. You will get to witness the beautiful Himalayan range of Mt Annapurna and Mt. Machhapuchhre. The rest of the day will be spent exploring the city as well as visiting some monasteries.
- Flight Hours: 25 Minutes
Day 2: Flight to Lukla (2850m / 9,350ft) ¾ hr, trek to Phakding (2,650m / 8,690ft)
We head to Tribhuvan International Airport for an early morning flight to Lukla. You will reach the Tenzing Hillary Airport after a 40-minute flight to Lukla, where you will get your first glimpse of the mountains. Then After a healthy and fulfilling breakfast, we’ll set out on our trek from the affluent village of Lukla to the mountain town of Phakding. You will pass by mountains, a lush valley, piles of Mani stones, and colourful prayer flags along the way. You can spend the rest of the day in Phakding touring the hamlet and nearby monasteries while getting ready for the strenuous hike the following day.
- Trek Distance: 6.2km / 3.8miles
- Flight Hours: 40 Minutes
- Highest Altitude: 2,850m / 9,350ft
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
.Day 3: Trek from Phakding (2,650m / 8,690ft) to Namche Bazaar (3440m / 11,285ft
We set out on our six-hour journey to Namche Bazaar, often known as the “Gateway to Everest.” We will cross multiple suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags as we meander through the dense forest along the Dudh Kose river’s banks. We will ascend to the Sagarmatha National Park entrance after a brief, leisurely hike through a few suspension bridges, where officials will check our permits. The amazing view of the surroundings and mountains is something you can appreciate from Sagarmatha National Park. We will arrive in Namche (3441m) after a 2- to 3-hour ascent from the park, one of the main settlements on the Everest trek. Additionally, you will visit the viewing area from where you get to witness the magnificent scenery of Mount Everest.
- Trek Distance: 7.4km / 4.6miles
- Highest Altitude: 3,440m / 11,285ft
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
Day 4: Rest Day to Relax and Acclimatize at Namche Bazaar (3440m / 11,285ft)
We’ll spend a day acclimatizing in Namche to familiarize ourselves with the high altitude because most trekkers exhibit the first symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in or near Namche. We will visit various Sherpa museums and the Syangboche Airport rather than spending the entire day at the hotel.
By ascending further higher to the Everest View Hotel, you will appreciate a magnificent 360-degree view of the incredible peaks, including Mount Everest, as well as exquisite sunrises and sunsets above the Khumbu peaks. We’ll then return to Namche Bazaar.
- Trek Distance: 9.2km / 5.7miles
- Highest Altitude: 3,440m / 11,285ft
- Trek Duration: 5 hours
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar (3440m / 11,285ft) to Tengboche (3,855m / 12,850ft)
We’ll start our trip to Tengboche after a leisurely breakfast in the early morning. Despite the trail’s increasing difficulty, it offers spectacular vistas of the Himalayas and opportunities to see wildlife such as musk deer, pheasants, and Himalayan tahr. You get a wonderful panorama of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Island Peak along the way. After passing Sanasa hamlet, the trail will descend to Phunki Thanga before abruptly ascending to Tengboche. The largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu Region is located at Tengboche. The Tengboche Monastery was established in 1923 but was twice destroyed, first by an earthquake in 1934 and again by fire in the early 1990s. With spare time, you can visit the monastery, where you can see the afternoon prayers and take in the expansive vista of the Alps.
- Trek Distance: 9.2km / 5.7miles
- Highest Altitude: 3,440m / 11,285ft
- Trek Duration: 5 hours
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche (3,855m / 12,850ft) to Dingboche (4,360m / 14,290ft)
From Tengboche, we continue our ascent to Pangboche, passing several chortens, mani walls, and tiny settlements. The trails offer breathtaking views of Mount Island’s peak. Following the Lobuche River, you’ll enter the Imja Valley and trek to Dingboche on a trail that climbs rapidly. A captivating vista of Mt. Lhotse and the Island peak (6,812m) can be observed from Dingboche (8,516m).
- Trek Distance: 12km / 7.45miles
- Highest Altitude: 4,360m / 14,290ft
- Trek Duration: 5 hours
Day 7: Trek from Dingboche (4,360m / 14,290ft) to Chukhung (4735m / 15,535ft) 3 Hours
Today’s trek will be roughly two hours long and less difficult than the previous trek. We leave towards the Chukhung Valley after a heavy breakfast, travelling through the farms of Imja Khola Valley, which are enclosed by stone walls. You can glimpse Mount Lhotse and Ama Dablam in all their magnificence while strolling along the steep trail. Until we arrive in Chukhung, today’s destination, we will walk along the trail. The picturesque valley of Chukhung is tucked between mountains like Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Imja Tse, and many other peaks. You’ll enjoy getting a particularly clear, up-close look at these mountains and their glaciers. We check into our hotel rooms in Chukhung, where we also meet our guide, who will give us an overview of the climb and our preparations.
- Trek Distance: 12km / 7.45miles
- Highest Altitude: 4,735m / 15,535
- Trekking Time: 3 hours
Day 8: Rest Day to Relax and Acclimatize at Chukhung (4735m / 15,535ft)
We’ll get some relaxation today and receive some essential training from the Sherpa climbing guide. You will receive peak climbing instruction from our guide, who will also show you how to use the ice axes, climbing boots, crampons, harnesses, and other materials. Although prior climbing expertise is not necessary for Island Peak, it will build climber confidence and increase the likelihood of summit success.
Day 9: Trek from Chukhung (4735m / 15,535ft) to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m / 17,050ft)
We depart Chukhung after a delicious breakfast and proceed northward, following the valley along the glacier that extends from the Lhotse glacier toward the east. Before we arrive at Island Peak Base Camp, we’ll cross the stream and the glacier moraines of Imja and Lhotse. After setting up the tents, you will receive a brief introduction to peak-climbing procedures, which will include the use of equipment including ice axes, harnesses, climbing boots and crampons, and rope abilities. In addition, you get to glimpse the exquisite southwest face of Imja Tse from the camp (Island Peak).
- Trek Distance: 5km / 3.1miles
- Highest Altitude: 5000m / 16,690ft
- Trek Duration: 4 hours
Day 10: Summit Island Peak (6,183m) and return to Chukhung (4735m / 15,535ft)
We set out early in the morning with the guidance of our skilled Sherpa guides to reach the summit of Island Peak before noon and avoid the afternoon breeze. After travelling for around two hours, we will arrive at the High Camp before making our way up to the rocky ridge. With the aid of ropes, we continue along the ridgeline until we reach the summit glacier and ascend toward a steep snow slope until we reach the summit. Outstanding views of Lhotse (27,890 feet), Makalu (27,805 feet), Island Peak (22,493 feet), and Baruntse are visible from the summit of Island Peak (25,328 feet). You will return to base camp after enjoying some of the best moments at the summit, then you will descend to Chukhung for the night.’
- Trek Duration: 11km / 6.8miles
- Highest Altitude: 6,189m / 20,305ft
- Trek Duration: 10 -11 hours
Day 11: An extra day for the climbing if the scheduled summit day was unsuccessful.
We included an extra day in case of poor weather or any health issues that would affect the scheduled summit day. If summit day goes well, we will relax and relish our time in the Himalayas. Otherwise, we’ll spend today in base camp or farther down the trail. At Chukhung, we’ll spend the night.
Day 12: Trek from Chukhung (4,730m /15,518ft) to Tengboche (3,870m / 12,304ft)
We will descend toward Pangboche from Chukhung and follow the same track until we arrive at Tengboche. The renowned Tengboche monastery, the largest monastery in the Everest region, is located in Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can admire the stunning Himalayan range from the park. Tengboche will be our residence for the night.
- Trek Distance: 12.9km / 8 miles
- Highest Altitude: 4,730m /15,518ft
- Trek Duration: 6 hrs
Day 13: Trek from Tengboche (3,870m / 12,304ft) to Namche (3440m / 11,285ft)
The routes from Tengboche to Nambazar lead us through a wooded area full of wild animals including pheasants, musk deer, mountain goats, and even snow leopards. Along the way, as we navigate rocky terrain and steep trails, we will pass through countless prayer flags. Throughout the trails, you can capture the beautiful scenery of the landscape, wildlife, dense forest, and exotic stones including Everest’s summit and Lhotse’s backside. We will finally arrive at Namche Bazaar, where we will head to our accommodations and rest.
- Trek Distance: 5.9km / 3.6miles
- Highest Altitude: 3,870m / 12,304ft
- Trek Duration: 6 hrs
Day 14: Trek from Namche (3440m / 11,285ft) to Lukla (2850m / 9,350ft) 6-7 hrs
We will enjoy the rewards of our final day of hiking as we head back to the Dudh Koshi Valley. In general, the journey to Lukla, where we will spend the night, takes about 6-7 hours. Before arriving in Toktok Village, the trail heading to Lukla climbs sharply to the west before descending and joining the main trail at a sidestream. You’ll eventually arrive at the large town of Lukla, from which you’ll take a flight back to Kathmandu the following day. As it will be the final day of the trek, take the opportunity to unwind, enjoy yourself, and recognize your accomplishments.
Day 15: Fly from Lukla (2,850 m/9,350 ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
On this last day, we will take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. On the 40-minute flight return to Kathmandu, travellers will get one final opportunity to see the Himalayas and take in the magnificent vista of Island Peak. When you arrive in Kathmandu, you will go to your lodgings, and how you spend your time is entirely up to you.
Day 16: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
We will take a morning flight back to Pokhara after having breakfast at our hotels. Throughout the flight, you will enjoy the stunning vista of Mt Annapurna and Mt Machhapuchhre as well as other Himalayan ranges. The remainder of the day might be spent sightseeing or relaxing. You may rent a boat and explore the mysterious caverns or go sightseeing or go boating in the exotic Phewa, Rupa, and Begnas Lakes in Pokhara Valley. Even adventurous activities like bungee jumping and paragliding are possible. You will have the opportunity to shop for memories and enjoy the vibrant city’s nightlife.
Cost Include
- Three meals a day during the Trekking (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
- Accommodations in a Tea House/Lodge during the Trekking.
- Pokhara-Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu flight costs (includes tax and government fees)
- Trekking Guide, assistant trekking guide for groups with 12 or more trekkers and a porter (Shared by two clients) with Insurance, food, and accommodations.
- Cook and helpers for Island Base Camp stay.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, Island Peak Climbing Permit fees
- Experienced and licensed Sherpa Climbing Guide fee
- Tent and camping staff with the kitchen crew
- Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
- Rescue operation arrangement in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance).
- Proper First aid kit
- A TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)is like a permit.
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses
- The company’s duffel bag will also be provided. (if needed)
- All essential official fees.
Cost Exclude
- International flight cost
- Your travel insurance
- Excess baggage charge (weight limit 9 kg per person)
- On-arrival visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport (30 days- USD 50)
- All accommodations and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the trek
- Extra night accommodations in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek
- Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boiled water, hot (tea/coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc
- Tips for the Guide and Porter(expected).
- Travel insurance that covers emergency high-altitude heli – rescue and evacuation and health care costs (compulsory)
- Additional costs or delays due to circumstances beyond our control like bad weather conditions, itinerary modification for safety, government policy changes
Additional Information
The weather must be taken into account before deciding to attempt Island Peak Climbing. The sky is clear from nightfall till dawn, there is no rain, and the temperatures are just ideal during the spring and autumn. The most breathtaking landscapes can be seen under the charm of clear, blue skies.
In comparison to the spring and autumn season, during the winter months when temperatures drop to 18 degrees Celsius, snow begins to accumulate in the trek area and it becomes increasingly difficult to climb Island Peak.
There is a strong likelihood that flights to Lukla at the beginning or finish of the walk will be cancelled during monsoon season due to the unpredictable rains and weather. Most importantly, the pathways can get muddy and slippery, making climbing Island Peak more difficult but still achievable.
The itinerary can be adjusted according to your requirements.
