Island Peak ClimbingIsland Peak Climbing

Island Peak Climbing - 19 Days 2024\2025

Key Information
  • Duration19 Days
  • Arrival CityKathmandu
  • Best TimeMarch-May/Sep.-Dec.
  • Group Size1-16

Summary of the Island Peak Climbing

For the adventure lover who wants to explore the summit of Peak Climbing and looking for a good challenge, Island Peak (6,189 m) is the perfect option for you. The spectacular trek to Island Peak follows the classic and mesmerizing Everest Base Camp Trek. It is locally named Imja Tse.

The mesmerizing peak amid the giant of the Himalayas. Tucked away up the Chukkung valley, this beautiful peak is dominated on both sides by astonishing Lhotse, Nuptse south to the north, and Baruntse to the south. 

This expedition provides a memorable climb and offers spectacular scenery of the beautiful Himalayas in the Khumbu region. After the adventurous flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, you will trek to Namche Bazaar, the bustling heartland of Sherpa culture. You will need to spend a couple of days acclimatizing here and continue your walk to Tengboche Monastery.

As you are in this famous monastery, you will be blessed with the fluttering prayer flags and the positive surroundings of the monastery. After some days of walking, you will reach Dingboche and then head towards Gorak Shep, near Everest Base Camp.

Further, you will climb to Kala Patthar, where you will be able to witness the beauty of Everest. The surrounding beauty includes Nuptse (7,879 m), Lhotse (8,501 m), Makalu (8,475 m), Baruntse (7,129 m), Amadablam (6,812 m) and other peaks. 

On the way to Island Peak climbing 

The ascent to Island Peak is usually non-technical yet adventurous, depending on conditions. Some prior snow climbing skills are needed. The approach route follows Chukkung Valley to Base Camp, and you will have time to refresh and learn new skills there before climbing. You will walk through the rocky paths and climb to the snow lines, following across glaciated and crevassed terrain and then a 300 meters headwall to the summit ridge.

The top of the Lhotse peak will be memorable; it offers the best climbing experience in Nepal Himalayas. This Peak climbing provides you with the knowledge of encountering a variety of wild floras and faunas in the lower parts. Climbing to the top will be a little adventurous, but it’s all about the rewards you will get at the top.

 Experience Needed For Island Peak Climbing 

Previous peak climbing experience will help you a lot while you are ascending to Island Peak. Knowing how to use the crampons and walk safely with them, using an ice axe correctly, and tying into the harness and onto the main rope are essential skills you need. Our experienced Sherpa and guide will teach you and escort you, so it will be easy for you to ascend to the top of Island Peak. 

The crevasses are well manageable, but crossing ladders will be a bewildering experience. There are handrails attached to snow stakes within the grounds, but some people find it difficult. The effective option will be to walk across with the crampons places across the ladder's rungs, but some people prefer to persist on hands and knees.

In terms of training, you will find some different skills from what you see on alpine courses. You will gain fantastic experience, especially ropework and moving confidently and safely on the glaciated ground. You will also learn some works on using jumars safely and abseiling on a fixed-line without being top-roped.

Physical Preparation for Island Peak Climbing 

It is important to begin some physical training for three to four months for your Island Peak Climbing trip. This helps you to improve stamina and the ability to walk on hills easily with a weighted backpack. You might have to train yourself a bit harder if you haven’t done any high-altitude trekking before.

Excellent health with breathing technique, low heart rate, perfect hydration, pacing, and great stamina are essential to have a safe and successful ascent of Island Peak. You will also be able to have good stamina to walk up and downhill with a weighted backpack at high altitudes. We will guide you more and always be excited to help and prepare you for Island Peak Climbing.

Please E-Mail us to get access to your mentors who have many years of experience in climbing the Nepal Himalayas. 

Island Peak Climbing Accommodation

Unless people preference for tents, accommodation on the Island Peak Climbing will be in nice lodges run by local families. Each lodge features a central public space with a fireplace, while the bedrooms are unheated and have two beds and mattresses, as well as a blanket and pillows. You must bring your own sleeping bag. The showers are normally powered by gas, and some use the iconic 'drop' toilets, but most now have flush systems.

The food served during the Island Peak Climb is of excellent with a blend of local Nepali / Sherpa cuisine and western dishes. There are also numerous cafes selling a variety of drinks, snacks, sweets, and chocolate. The most difficult task will be avoiding all junk foods and sticking to a simple diet.

We'll be camping at the Island Peak base camp. We'll be sleeping in mountain tents, which typically sleep two people per tent. We use a four-season sleeping bag as well as a high-quality sleeping mat. Lower down, you may want to use a sleeping bag liner to sleep in an open zipped 4-season bag to prevent overheating.

The porters will carry your main luggage up to a maximum weight of 15 kg and will cater for all of the group's needs. You will also have your guide and climbing guide with you the entire time to assure your safety and happiness.

Emergency Evacuation in Island Peak Climbing 

In Nepal, helicopter evacuations are the most typical method of dealing with an emergency. There is a well-established infrastructure for dealing with logistics. Incidents are uncommon, and Island Peak is located in a well-supported region of Nepal, the Himalayan Rescue Center in Pheriche. 

It is clearly critical to have travel insurance in place and to be clear about your destination and what you are doing to the insurance company. In the event of an emergency, the team, as well as the guide, porters, and anybody else around will be responsible for moving a casualty.

This could take some time and distance in a Himalayan environment like Island Peak. The most prevalent cause for delaying helicopter aid is bad weather. As a result, it is critical to recognize that self-sufficiency and self-management are required in the mountains.

A helicopter evacuation can be arranged through your insurance company, but you will need to open a case and describe the conditions to the insurance company. The greatest advice in the case of altitude sickness is to avoid risk and descend. Further elevation can quickly lead to far more serious cerebral or pulmonary oedema, therefore it's usually best to descend if you're feeling truly unwell.
 

    Highlights

    • Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and many 7,000 m+ peaks.
    • Best combo of Island peak climbing with Everest Base Camp hike.
    • Encounter mythical high-Himalayan Sherpa culture in the towns of the Khumbu region.
    • Ancient Tengboche Monastery
    • Wildlife like musk deer, colorful pheasants, snow leopard, and Himalayan Tahr
    • Witness the culture and lifestyles of the local Sherpa people

    Itinerary

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    The representatives of the Himalayan Odyssey will be at the airport to pick you up and you will be dropped at your designated hotel. You will need to rest after a long and tiring flight and freshen up to get ready for a lively evening in Kathmandu. Later in the evening, you can enjoy the buzzing tourist hub of Kathmandu - Thamel. Also, you will meet your trekking guide and some last-minute shopping before we head out of Kathmandu

      Today we will prepare ourselves for the journey. You will have an interactive session with your climber and check all of your equipment. You can easily rent or buy equipment if you don’t have them. This is the time to bond with your guide and fellow travelers. Later in the evening, you can go around Thamel have a splendid night. 

        On this day, we will take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The duration of the flight will be about 45 minutes. After landing in Lukla, we will carry on with our journey on foot and head to Phakding. While on our way to Phakding, we will first cross the village called Cheplung. From here, we will be able to spot Mt. Khumbila, a mountain that no one has climbed. After the ascend to Cheplung village, we will gradually descend and head to Phakding where we will rest for the night.

          We will head out early in the morning and make our way to the famous town of Namche Bazaar. Our trail will take us through lush green pine forests and we will ascend until we reach the north side of Benkar valley. Continuing with our journey, we will first cross the Dudh Koshi River and pass through two beautiful villages of Chumoa and Monjo, and finally make our way to the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. We will resume our journey and after crossing a suspension bridge, we will reach Jorsale where we can rest. Then we will walk alongside the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. Finally, we will reach the final stop of the day: Namche Bazaar, where we will rest for the night. 

            On this day we will halt in Namche Bazaar, kind of! On this day we will acclimatize to the changing weather and increasing altitude. You can go around the town of Namche Bazaar and visit souvenir shops and restaurants. You can also opt to wake up early in the morning and hike up the Sagarmatha National Park and enjoy the sunrise and also the majestic view of mountains such as Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde. If you are interested in a day hike, we can opt for a day hike and head to Khumjung village where we can visit the Hillary School and a monastery that houses the scalp of a Yeti.

              We will head out after breakfast and right from the beginning, we will be serenaded by the beauty of mountains such as Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam Thamserku, and Khangtaiga. Additionally, we will also be blessed with the rare sightings of musk deer and pheasants. The trail will then head down to Dudh Koshi river and here we will spot few lodges where we can rest for a while. Our trail will then lead us through a suspension bridge that goes over the Dudh Koshi river. We will then ascend the trail and make our way through pine and juniper forests. We will finally reach Tengboche after the end of this uphill climb. Here, we can visit the famous Tengboche monastery and enjoy the stunning view of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Mt. Everest, and other peaks. If you visit this place during the month of October, you can witness the famous Mani Rimdu festival.

                We wake up early and head to the Tengboche Monastery and pay our respects. The view from the monastery is awesome. Make sure you have your camera. We will then eat our breakfast and head towards Pheriche. We will then descend towards a forest trail and then cross a suspension bridge. We will then climb further up and will see more highland meadows than trees. We will then reach Pangboche and continue our journey until we reach Pheriche. 

                  Our first stop on this day will be Dugla. We further ascend the trail and then encounter the moraine of Khumbu Glacier. We climb higher and then rest at Chupki Lhara. After trekking for a couple of hours more, we will finally reach Lobuche. The trail to Lobuche offers a stunning view of the mountains - Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori and Mahalangur.

                    Our trek kicks off with a hike up to Gorak Shep. After Gorak Shep, we make our way to the base camp. The trek is relatively difficult as the trail involves rocky dunes and moraine, formed an accumulation of unconsolidated glacial debris. On our way, we will also see the famous Khumbu Glacier and icefall located on the base of Mount Everest. During the spring season, we can also meet climbers waiting to make the climb. Whip your cameras out and take a tonne of pictures of the breathtaking views of the mountains. After savoring this moment, we will make our way back to Gorak Shep. We need to go to bed early on this day as we need to wake up to catch the sunrise on the following day.

                      On this day we will wake up very early and make our way to Kala Patthar. After hiking up for 2-3 hours, we will reach Kala Patthar. Get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning beauty as the first rays of the sun hit the mountains. Kala Patthar offers the best view of Mount Everest(8848 m) and other mountains such as Pumori (7,145m/23,443ft), Lingtren (6,697m/21, 973ft), Khumbutse (6,623m/21,730ft), Changtse (7,550m/24,772ft), Lhotse (8,516m/27,941ft) and Nuptse (7,861m/25,792ft). We will also see Cho Oyo (8,201m/26,907ft) in the west and Ama Dablam to the south. After this, we will head back to the Gorak Shep for our breakfast. Then we will make our way to Lobuche where we will rest for the night.

                        Today is the day where we will cross another pass - Kongma La(5535m). We will scale the trail and reach Kongma La Pass. Enjoy the stunning view of the mountains and witness the beauty of the pass itself which is serenaded by prayer flags. We will then descend to Chukkung but first, we will reach Imja Khola valley(4730m).

                          We will leave Chukkung early in the morning. Our climb will be quite adventurous as we head through narrow passes and rocky terrain. We will continue walking south and then turn east where a winding path will take us to Island Peak Base Camp. It is advised that we rest properly on this day as we have a long day tomorrow.

                            We will prepare ourselves for the ultimate climb. Our guides will teach us a few simple climbing techniques. We will also learn how to use climbing gear such as ice axe, climbing boots, and crampons, harnesses, ascenders, etc. The training will not be very difficult but helpful for our climb which will surely be epic. After the training, you can rest and prepare yourself for tomorrow.

                              This is the defining day of our entire trip as we will scale the Island peak. We are required to leave the Base Camp by 2 am. We will head up the trail with the help of our torches. We will climb a steep hillside which is quite rocky. Then we will go through a narrow path that enters a steep rocky channel. After crossing a ridgeline we will reach the summit glacier. Ropes will be used in places to help us climb. We will use fixed as well as man rope and also ladders to cross crevasses. After reaching the summit of Island Peak, enjoy the view of the mountains from above 6000 meters. We will spend some time on the summit and then head down to the base camp where we will celebrate our successful ascent.

                                Our descend will now start as we return from our successful climb. We take the route to Khumbu valley and cross many villages. After about 5-6 hours we will reach Pangboche. Enjoy the awesome view of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtaiga.

                                  This will be the second last day of walking as we will return to Namche Bazaar. We will first head to the village of Tengboche. We will visit the famous Tengboche monastery and enjoy our lunch. After Tengboche, we will come across Sansa and then reach Namche Bazaar.

                                    On this day, we will pass through the wonderfully friendly village of Jorsale and exit the Sagarmatha national park. We will then cross Monjo, Phakding, and then cross the suspension bridge at Thado Koshi before rising to Ghat and Cheplung. Then after the final ascent which lasts for 40 minutes, we will reach Lukla.

                                      We will head back to Kathmandu on this day. The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu will last about 45 minutes. During this flight, we can still enjoy the view of the mountains.

                                        Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end. On this day, you will have your breakfast and do your last moment shopping. We will get you to the airport and bid farewell. Lastly, if you plan to extend your stay in Nepal, The Himalayan Odyssey will be at your service.

                                          Cost Details

                                          Included
                                          • Arrival and departure transfers
                                          • Two-way flight from Kathmandu to Lukla
                                          • Accommodation in Kathmandu with BB Plan as per itinerary
                                          • Accommodation in lodges/tea houses and tents during the expedition
                                          • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the expedition
                                          • Sagarmatha National Park entry fee and TIMS card
                                          • Island Peak Climbing permits and necessary documents
                                          • Sherpa guides (English speaking, trained in first aid) 
                                          • Porters for personal and group gear
                                          • Staff insurance
                                          • Group climbing gear, e.g. ropes, ice screws, tents, cooking equipment, first aid kits
                                          • Climbing certificate
                                          Excluded
                                          • International flight ticket.
                                          • International airport tax
                                          • Visa Fee
                                          • Sightseeing in Kathmandu
                                          • Tips for staff and guide
                                          • Trip Insurance
                                          • Personal costs like drinks, laundry, hot showers, bottled water
                                          • Personal climbing equipment and clothing
                                          • Anything that is not listed in the “PRICE INCLUDES” section above

                                          Good to Know

                                          Best Time for Island Peak Climbing

                                          Island Peak Climbing is possible in the autumn (September, October, and November) and the spring (March, April, and May) season. These seasons are also considered the high season for trekkers and climbers in Nepal. 

                                          Autumn Season (September, October, November)

                                          September, October, and November are the months of the autumn season, which are the height times to trek or climb in Nepal. September is the first month of the autumn season that comes just after the departure of the Monsoon season. Early September sees some rainfalls because the monsoon is on the verge of goodbye. But the raindrops of the Monsoon season wash all the dust from the terrains and vegetation.

                                          There is greenery everywhere during the autumn season. The waterfalls, rivers, ponds, and lakes get refilled after the Monsoon season. So, it's the proper time to enjoy the water beauty and thundering waterfalls of Nepal. Moreover, the air is so fresh and cool during the autumn. From mid-September, it's a time of clear skies and peaceful mountain views.

                                          Why autumn season for Island Peak Climbing?

                                          • Experience Unreal temperature for trekkers and climbers.
                                          • Enjoy the clear visibility of landscapes and mountains.
                                          • Traverse festival season in Nepal.
                                          • Fresh and dust-free terrain views.
                                          • Observe the speedy and contained water resources of Nepal.

                                          Spring Season (March, April, May)

                                          March, April, and May are the months of spring that embrace thousands of trekkers and climbers to Nepal. Spring is an unbeatable period for any adventure. These are the months when Nepal’s trekking trails are most busy. Spring is the season of blooming flowers and green vegetation. The paths to the Island peak are beautifully embellished with varied and colorful flowers and plants. The dry and bright weather provides clear visibility of the environment. The terrain view is utter wow during spring with wide-spreading Rhododendron and Oak trees.

                                          Why is the Spring season for Island Peak Climbing?

                                          • Walk through colorful Himalayan flowers and green trails.
                                          • Trek and climb in clear, steady, and fair weather.
                                          • Enjoy the clear visibility of mountains and terrains.
                                          • Experience Nepal’s beauty like never before.
                                             

                                          Climbing Gear for Island Peak

                                          Climbing an Island Peak in Nepal is an exhilarating adventure. Climbing preparation is more than just checking itineraries and getting in shape. You will also require the proper gear and equipment, thus we listed down a climbing gear for Island Peak.

                                          Clothing

                                          • Thermal Base Layers (Tops and Bottoms)
                                          • Heavy Base Layers
                                          • Trekking Pants
                                          • Hard-shell pants
                                          • Down Pant
                                          • T-shirts (Short and long sleeve)
                                          • Mid Layer Top
                                          • Insulated Jacket
                                          • Hard-shell Jacket
                                          • Down Jacket

                                          Footwear

                                          • Double insulated climbing boots
                                          • Hiking boots (Full and waterproof)
                                          • Gaiters
                                          • Flip-flops
                                          • Socks (Wool/Synthetic)
                                          • Liner socks 

                                          Handwear

                                          • Liner gloves
                                          • Mid-weight gloves
                                          • Down mittens

                                          Headwear

                                          • Cap/Sun Hat
                                          • Buff
                                          • Balaclava
                                          • Warm wool/Synthetic Hat
                                          • Eye Wear (Full coverage around eyes and nose)
                                          • Ski Goggles

                                          Climbing Gears

                                          • Helmet
                                          • Ice Axe with a waist leash 
                                          • Mountaineering Crampons 
                                          • Lightweight Mountaineering Harness
                                          • Carabiners
                                          • Belay Device
                                          • Ascender/Jumar
                                          • Prussik /Accessory Cord 

                                          Backpacking

                                          • Small pack (35-40 litres)
                                          • Waterproof duffel bag
                                          • Pack cover

                                          Accessories

                                          • Water Bottles with insulation cover
                                          • Trekking poles 
                                          • Headlamp (200-300 lumens)
                                          • Camera
                                          • Power bank/Solar Charger
                                          • Universal adapter
                                          • Diary 
                                          • Pocket knife

                                          Hygiene and first aid

                                          • Skincare
                                          • Toothbrush, Soap, Moisturizer 
                                          • Hand Sanitizer
                                          • Toilet paper and wet wipes
                                          • Personal first aid kit (personal prescriptions, high altitude medications, painkillers, etc.)
                                          • Water treatment

                                          Others

                                          • Snacks you like to munch)
                                          • Travel clothes to wear in Kathmandu
                                          • Sleeping bag (-20 degrees sleeping bag)
                                          • Inflatable mattress

                                          For more information on climbing gears for Island Peak Climbing please email us. 

                                          FAQs

                                          • Q1. Where is Island Peak located?

                                            Imja Tse, better known as Island Peak, is a Peak located in Sagarmatha National Park of the Himalayas of eastern Nepal.

                                          • The height of the Island peak is (6,160 m/20,210 ft).

                                          • Island Peak Climbing is possible in the autumn (September, October, and November) and the spring (March, April, and May) season. 

                                          • This is the trekking peak so it may take 18 to 21 days to reach Island Peak

                                          • Island Peak Climbing requires a performance above the average relating to force and strength, especially the peak day will be long and exhausting.

                                          •  You will need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and Island Peak Climbing permits.

                                          • If you are healthy and willing to go on climbing then above 18 years can climb Island Peak.

                                          • Yes, you will need a climbing permit for Island Peak Climbing.

                                          • It is not compulsory to join the group during Island Peak Climbing, but it may reduce the cost if you are in the group.

                                          • The routes are quite harsh compared to other climbing regions. But, this peak is suitable for both beginners as well as experienced climbers. The path can be more challenging and overwhelming for new climbers so be prepared with physical and mental preparation. If you have past trekking experience then it will be easier for Island Peak Climbing.

                                          • -   Avoid flying directly to areas of high altitude.

                                            -   Take 1 to 2 days of acclimatization to get used to high altitudes before going above 3000m.

                                            -   Avoid climbing more than 300m to 500m a day.

                                            -   Have a rest day every 800m to 1000m you go up.

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