Island Peak Climbing

Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Climbing
  • Duration20 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Climbing
  • Max. Altitude 6189 meters -20305 ft.
  • Starts Lukla
  • Ends Lukla
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Best Season March to May and September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$2390
2 - 6 paxUS$2190
7 - 10 paxUS$1990
11 - 15 paxUS$1890
16 - 20 paxUS$1790
Island Peak Climbing Highlights
  • Traverse through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you may spot rare wildlife like Himalayan Tahrs, red pandas, musk deer, wild yak, and elusive snow leopards in their natural habitat.
  • Be awestruck by the panoramic vistas of towering peaks such as Ama Dablam, Pumori, Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, which form a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop throughout your journey.
  • Wander through the bustling streets of Namche Bazaar, a vibrant Himalayan town nestled amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. Explore local markets, cafes, and shops offering unique Sherpa crafts and souvenirs.
  • Experience a magical moment at Everest View Hotel while enjoying a morning breakfast or a cup of tea/coffee. Witness your first breathtaking view of Mount Everest, an unforgettable sight that captures the essence of your adventure.
  • Delve into Sherpa culture by visiting revered monasteries like Khumjung Monastery, Tengboche Monastery, and Luwadong Monastery. Explore the Sherpa Museum to learn about local traditions and history amidst the stunning Himalayan landscape.
  • Embark on the exhilarating challenge of climbing Island Peak (Imja Tse), a renowned trekking peak in the Everest region.

Island Peak Climbing

Climbing represents the ultimate adventure in Nepal, both a touchstone to the glorious days of Mallory and Hillary and a reflection of the fact that the Himalayan giants stand as the preeminent mountaineering challenge in the world. For those who wish to sample such an exhilarating experience, Island Peak offers one of the premier climbs available to trekkers, and it's an option Nepal Trekking Experts is well placed to deliver via our many years of working in the industry. What makes this climb even more worthwhile is the bonus of being able to visit Everest Base Camp along the way. If standing on such historic and famous ground isn't enough to impel you to the top of Island Peak, nothing will! The trek also helps climbers acclimate to the altitude and build up their fitness en route, an important point for those who may be lacking somewhat in conditioning.

A 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla takes us to the start of our adventure, the classic trek to Everest Base Camp via Namche, Tengboche, and Lobuche. From there, we continue to Kala Patthar and the site of our base camp on the lower slopes of Island Peak to prepare ourselves for the excitement ahead.

Island Peak, or Imja Tse as it's known to locals, is a breathtaking climb that can be attempted from either the base camp (4970 m) or the high camp (5600 m) along a natural line that leads over a narrow ridge to the summit and its magnificent views of Everest and Lhotse. To stand atop Island Peak and behold the magnificent panorama and cloud base below is to feel like you're standing on top of the world—it's a very special moment.

Whether visiting on an individual basis or as a group, Nepal Trekking Experts has the expertise to arrange your Island Peak Climbing experience, so why not contact us and let our staff get you on the trail to the mountain's base camp?

In addition, you may also choose our similar climbing packages, such as the Lobuche Peak Climbing, Mera Peak Climbing, or the Everest Three High Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing.

Useful Information

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climb? 

The Everest Base Camp Trek combined with Island Peak Climbing is a moderately challenging adventure that requires a high level of physical fitness and mental determination. The first EBC trek is itself considered moderate with 12 days of trekking through of daily hikes of around 6 hours. The trek takes you through a variety of terrains, including rocky paths, suspension bridges, and steep ascents, all while dealing with the effects of high altitude.

Adding Island Peak to the trek not only increases the difficulty but also adds full of excitement to the journey. Island Peak stands at 6189 meters above sea level. The trekking peak is classified as 2B as it consists of a few technical aspects. The ascent involves navigating tough terrain, including glacier travel and a steep headwall that requires the use of fixed ropes, crampons, ice axes, jumars, carabiners, etc. The physical demands are intensified by the need to carry climbing gear and the reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes.

Best Season for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing

More than decades of experience in tourism and after completing many thousands of successful trekking and peak climbing trips, we have concluded that spring and autumn are the best seasons for these adventures. But why? Let us explain. 

Spring Season (March to May)

The season right after winter brings a greenery charm to the Everest region. Spring offers moderate temperatures ranging from 0°C to 20°C during the day and chilly nights 0°C to negative 20°C. The skies are generally blue and free of clouds, with excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks. Additionally, newly grown plants and flowers, such as rhododendrons, add vibrant colors to the landscape. The best part is you get to encounter the diverse flora and fauna along the trail of Everest

Autumn Season (September to November)

Following the heavy rainfall of the monsoon season, autumn indeed brings stable, clear weather with low precipitation. Temperatures are mild 0°C to 15°C during the day and 0°C to negative 20°C at night. Due to the clear atmosphere, the views of the Himalayan peaks are exceptional. The landscape takes on the charm of the autumn season, with colorful foliage adding to the picturesque scenery.

Moreover, autumn is the time for some of the biggest festivals in the region, such as Teej, Dashain, Tihar, Chad, etc. These festivals gives a unique opportunity for trekkers and climbers to immerse themselves in Hindu culture and traditions

Accommodation 

In the Everest region, accommodation options range from basic to luxury. Until Namche Bazaar, trekkers can find luxury lodges offering western bathrooms, private rooms, Wi-Fi, and hot showers. These amenities provide a comfortable stay in a remote area. Beyond Namche, accommodation is more basic, with teahouses offering twin bedrooms and shared bathrooms. Despite the simplicity, these teahouses are cozy and provide essential services for trekkers to have a place to rest and recuperate during their journey.

Note: As per the classic package NTE provides a private common room. Mostly, a common room will have a twin bedroom in the Himalayas and toilet bathrooms will be shared. If you would like to upgrade your accommodation, feel free to talk to us.

Food 

In the lower altitude region, trekkers can enjoy traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat, a meal of lentil soup, rice, and vegetables, and momos, Tibetan-style dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, along with Western options like pasta, pizza, and sandwiches at teahouses. At the upper altitudes, trekkers are offered a balanced diet of Tibetan food such as thukpa, a hearty noodle soup, thenduk, noodles, potatoes, and vegetables, as well as rice and dal. These meals ensure trekkers remain nourished and energized throughout their journey.

Telephone and Wifi

In the high elevations of the Everest region, access to internet and telephone services is available.

Many tea houses along the trekking routes offer Wi-Fi access for a fee, ranging from $3 to $5 per day. Similarly, there are areas with phone services and mobile reception, allowing trekkers to stay connected with the outside world.

To ensure continuous connectivity throughout the trek, it's advisable to purchase a local SIM card from providers like Nepal Telecom in Kathmandu before starting your journey. This allows you to make calls and use mobile data where available along the trail. It is required to purchase a local SIM card from providers like Nepal Telecom. 

Note: Wi-Fi and reception in the Himalayas may be affected by the weather and technical issues. 

Porter 

Hiring a porter for your trek in the Everest region is not mandatory, but they provide valuable assistance by carrying extra luggage that allows you to focus on enjoying your journey. Porters typically carry up to 20 kg per day, which can include additional gear for trekking or climbing expeditions. Their support is particularly beneficial for those who prefer to lighten their load and maintain energy for the trekking experience.

NTE highly recommends hiring a porter since it enhances your journey and your hard earned money goes directly to his family education, health, and meals. You are not giving your load to the porter, but in fact you are supporting and uplifting a poor family life. 

Permit Cost 

For the Everest Base Camp Trek and Island Peak climb, you'll need to obtain several permits, each with its own cost:

Everest Base Camp Trek Permit Costs:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3000 per person.
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: NPR 2000 per person.

Lobuche Peak Climbing Permit Costs:

  • Spring (March–May): USD 250 per person.
  • Autumn (September–November): USD 125 per person.
  • Winter (December–February): USD 70 per person.
  • Summer (June–August): USD 70 per person.

Travel Insurance 

Given the physical challenges and high-altitude nature of both trekking to Everest Base Camp and climbing Island Peak, comprehensive travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection. Make sure your insurance policy specifically covers trekking at high altitudes and includes provisions for mountaineering or climbing activities if you plan to ascend Island Peak. 

Since trekking and peak climbing involve different levels of risk and require specific coverage, it might be prudent to consider two separate insurance plans: one tailored for trekking that includes evacuation and medical coverage for altitude-related issues and another plan that specifically covers mountaineering or peak climbing activities.

Before purchasing travel insurance, carefully review the policy details, coverage limits, exclusions, and any specific requirements related to high-altitude activities. It's advisable to choose a reputable insurance provider and ensure that you understand what is included in your coverage

Trekking with peak climbing gear

Clothing

  • Raincoat, poncho, or combination jacket/trousers
  • Four Seasons down jacket
  • A down vest
  • Windproof trousers/Down Pant
  • Two pairs of hiking pants
  • One pair of shorts
  • Four T-shirts (depending on the duration of the trek)
  • One fleece jacket
  • Two pairs of base layers (Merino wools or similar)
  • Four pairs of hiking socks and a couple of pairs of thicker socks (Merino wool or similar)
  • Two pairs of gloves—one light fleece, the other waterproof/windproof
  • Undergarments
  • Harnesses, Jumar, carabineers, safety helmet, ice axe, rope, 4-season tents, sleeping pad, ice screw, snow bars, etc.

Footwear

  • Climbing boots
  • Flip-flops for leisure time around camp or one pair of sneakers

Other Accessories:

  • Climbing Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, sun hat, woolen or fleece hat, first aid kit, Swiss army knife (optional), luggage cover, headlamp, trekking poles, gaiter, crampons, water purification tablets or Steripen, extra batteries, adapter, power bank, water bottles/camel bag/Thermos, washing powder/multi-purpose soap, shampoo, a small towel, antiseptic hand wash, toiletries, female hygiene products, wet wipes, mosquito spray (optional), earplugs, reading books, playing cards/chess
  • Sleeping bag rated to minus 25 degrees Celsius, depending on trekking or climbing route and season.
  • Backpack (60 liters)
  • Daypack (25 to 35 liters)
Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Welcome to the airport and transfer to your hotel. An introduction to your trekking program, then the rest of the day at your leisure to enjoy the sights, sounds, and culture of Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Today is the final opportunity for trekking preparation, checking trekking gears, meeting with the guide, team brief, and joining for welcome dinner.

  • Max. Altitude:2610m/8563ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A magical scenic flight takes us to Lukla in the morning, and from there, we begin our trek with a hike to the day's first destination, Phakding.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our day starts by following the Dudh Koshi River and crossing over the Edmund Hillary suspension bridge, then heading towards Sagarmatha National Park and the checkpoint at Monjo. The path ascends markedly until it eventually leads us into Namche Bazaar, the regional capital of the Sherpa district.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A rest day to allow the body to acclimate to the high-altitude conditions. Namche is perfect for the situation, as there's plenty to do in the scenic town, including paying a visit to Khunde Hospital, the local medical facility set up through Edmund Hillary's charitable work in the area, taking in the panoramas from the Everest View Hotel, calling in on the Sherpa Cultural Museum, or hiking up to Khumjung Valley and its monastery, complete with the display of its legendary Yeti scalp.

  • Max. Altitude:3860m/12664ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trail leads away from Namche Bazaar through several small villages and a suspension bridge en route to Phunki Tenga and then climbs through a series of switchbacks and dense rhododendron forests to Tengboche. The village is renowned for its monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region, and has a long association with mountaineering expeditions to the area.

  • Max. Altitude:4240m/13911ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

We continue climbing steadily after our departure from Tengboche, making our way through scenic stretches of dense forest and across one of Nepal's ubiquitous suspension bridges until we ascend to Pangboche and hike on towards Sumare. After a pause to take in a meal, we head out again on the final stretch to Pheriche, a sizable village noteworthy for its exceptional views of Ama Dablam, Tabuche, and Cholatse.

  • Max. Altitude:4240m/13911ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A further rest day gives us ample opportunity to fully explore the scenic beauty of Pheriche and its surroundings.

  • Max. Altitude:4940m/16207ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

With plenty of rest from the previous day, our bodies are fully prepared for the next stretch towards Thugla, where we pass numerous cairns and monuments dedicated to the many Sherpas and climbers who have perished on Everest's slopes. Further along on the trail through the barren terrain, we come to Khumbu glacier at the foot of the famous mountain and marvel at the terrible beauty and chaos of the inexorable mass of ice. The day finishes with our arrival at the jumble of buildings that make up the remote human outpost of Lobuche.

  • Max. Altitude:5164m/16942ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our trek reaches its climax today with the much-anticipated arrival at Everest Base Camp, truly one of the most memorable experiences in Nepal. The morning is spent traversing Khumbu Glacier and hiking to Gorak Shep, where we typically pause for a well-deserved meal and extraordinary views before heading out again for the journey's reward, the historic base camp, a temporary home through the decades to some of the most legendary figures in the annals of mountaineering. After pausing to drink in the astonishing spectacle and perhaps view the latest expeditions mounting their challenge, we reluctantly turn around and make our way back to Gorak Shep for our night's rest.

  • Max. Altitude:4940m/16942ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Everest may not be within our reach, but Kala Patthar is on hand to give added meaning to the visit via unmatched views of the entire Khumbu basin and a sense of accomplishment in scaling the peak. After returning for breakfast and retrieving our trekking gear, we hit the trail once more for the pronounced descent to Lobuche.

  • Max. Altitude:4730m/15518ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Today we scale the highest of the three passes in the Everest region, Kogma La, with its outstanding views of the Himalayas and nearby Khumbu Glacier. From there it's a steady descent to Chhukung village, the last outpost of civilization before we head out on our expedition. Chhukung is where we'll meet up for the first time with our climbing guide.

  • Max. Altitude:4970m/16306ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The sense of genuine adventure builds as we work our way up the steep trail, past the outflow from the Lhotse glacier, towards the sweeping valley below Island Peak's flanks, where we'll set up our base camp for the night.

  • Max. Altitude:4410m/14468ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our path to the top of Island Peak takes us to the left of the sharp incline and across a rock-strewn slope that funnels us further upwards to the ridgeline and the long traverse towards the peak. We rope up for the summit glacier and head across this final obstacle towards our ultimate goal; the ridge leading to the top of Island Peak. Once at the top, we can pause to celebrate the moment and take in the breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and the surrounding Himalayan amphitheater of formidable peaks before turning to the task of our return journey to the base of the mountain and on to Dingboche.

  • Max. Altitude:4410m/14468ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, so prudence demands that we set aside an additional day to maximize your chances of making a successful climb.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Though the trail is a familiar one the hike to Namche Bazaar provides a different perspective on the scenery as well as a more relaxed journey.

  • Max. Altitude:2860m/9383ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

On our final day, easing back to Lukla along the Dudhi Koshi and its suspension bridges. Once at Lukla we can finally throw off our backpacks, take a refreshing shower, and sit down to relax and savor the heady accomplishment of making it to the foot of Everest and the summit of Island Peak.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast

After breakfast, we take a flight to Kathmandu where you'll have enough time to sample the city's treasures one last time before departure.

    Farwell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

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    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us. (We provide city tours on request)

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included
    • Staff insurance, salary, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • All necessary trekking permits, such as National Park, TIMS, climbing permits, etc.
    • All meals during the trek and climb
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Certificate of Achievement
    • Professional English-speaking government-registered and first-aid trained local guide
    • First Aid Kit
    • professional climbing guide and his meals, accommodations, insurance, salary, etc.
    • All necessary climbing equipment, such as a tent, rope, ice axe, etc.
    • Return ticket from Kathmandu to Lukla, including the domestic airport tax
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfares and Nepal visa fees
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Personal insurance, personal expenses, property theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing fees in the city (temples, monasteries, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
    • Tips for staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Island Peak Climbing map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:TuesdayOct 15, 2024
    End:SundayNov 03, 2024
    PriceUS$2390
    StatusGuaranteed
    Start:FridayOct 25, 2024
    End:WednesdayNov 13, 2024
    PriceUS$2390
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the group departure dates? Aside from that, we organize private trips or any special dates you prefer. Let's talk to our local specialist now.

    Photos & Videos
    FAQs for Island Peak Climbing
    • The altitude of the Island Peak is 6189 meters/ 20305 feet.

    • The height of Island Peak Base Camp is 5080 meters/ 16667 feet.

    • The Island Peak Climbing costs 1700 - 2400 USD per person. It depends on the number of days, group size, service, etc.

    • Island Peak Climbing is a training peak for beginners and is considered a moderate climbing peak in Nepal.

    • You can expect a minimum of -20°c to -25°c during the Island peak Climbing.

    • The elevation of Lukla airport is 2860 meters/ 9383 feet.

    • You can not see Mt Everest from the summit of Island Peak but you will have a magnificent view of Lhotse, Peak 38, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and many more.

    • Like other popular trekking in Nepal, the best time for Island Peak Climbing is September to November and March to May.

    • No, climbing Island Peak does not require technical skills but physical strength. Normally people take it as training for higher climbing.

    • The Island Peak trekking with Climbing takes 16 to 20 days, 144 Km / 90 miles.

    • We take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla then start your journey to Island Peak.

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