Island Peak Climbing - 19 Days
19 Days
2-10 People
6189m
Everest/Khumbu Region
Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu)- Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu)
Moderate
5-7 Hours
3 Star Hotels, Tea Houses, Camping
Late Spring and Autumn
Mount Everest, Lhotse, Mount Pumori
19 Days
Southeast
- Best Price Guaranteed
- Professional Local Guide
- Your Happiness Guaranteed
Island Peak Climbing is one of the most beautiful trekking and peak climbing centers in the Himalayas. Located in the Everest/Khumbu region of Eastern Nepal, Island Peak Climbing is perfect for you if you are an adventure lover and enthusiast of energetic and challenging treks. The 19 days journey takes you through some of the surreal landscapes of the Everest/Khumbu Region until you conquer the top of magical Island Peak.
Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, stands at 6189 meters (20305ft) above sea level. It stands in the picturesque Imja Valley in the Everest region, only a few miles from Mount Everest (8848m). The peak looks like an island from a distance, amidst the icy waters guarded by silver mountains.
Your enthralling journey gets underway with an adventurous flight to Tenzing–Hillary Airport, Lukla, from the capital city. You will enjoy seeing magnificent views from the top before landing amidst the high hills in one of the world’s most extreme airports.
After an enticing flight, you will commence the trek that takes you through some of the beautiful trails. From exploring the gateway of Mount Everest: Namche Bazar to visiting the historical Tengboche monastery, you will get lost in the tranquility of the beautiful nature. Moreover, the expedition presents you the chance to stroll around the Everest Base Camp, from where the dreams of many climbing enthusiasts of conquering the great Mount Everest begin.
The summit of Island Peak gets underway once you reach the Island Peak Base Camp. From there, you will climb towards the High Camp and acclimatize your body properly before the ultimate summit. Our Sherpa guides will involve you in some drills and physical exercises before you begin the most fun part of the expedition.
Ascending the Island Peak is not that challenging; however, you have to face some physical difficulties before reaching the top. Nevertheless, your efforts won’t go in vain as the summit offers you some bone-chilling views of Lhotse (8516m), Mount Pumori (7161m), Mera Peak, Mt. Barunste, and other surrounding peaks.
You can climb Island Peak during two seasons on either side of the monsoon, spring (mid-March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November). Likewise, it is possible to climb the peak during the winter, but cold temperatures will create additional difficulties.
We are here to make sure that you achieve your quest to conquer the top of Island Peak without any difficulties. We have a team of expert climbers, who have the experience of completing any kind of climbs with minimal or no risks. Besides, they will provide you the necessary assistance even during the grueling scenarios.
This Island Peak Climbing trip offers you an opportunity to explore the Everest/Khumbu region of Nepal from its core.
Short History of Island Peak
Located on top of the Chhukung glacier between Lhotse (8383m) and Ama Dablam (6856m) mountains, the Island Peak was first summited by the Swiss team in 1956. The team was training and preparing for the Everest Expedition. Since then, a handful of climbers have successfully climbed this peak, as it is not too challenging and doesn’t necessarily require any previous climbing experience.
Why You Will Love Island Peak Climbing
- You will enjoy a 19 days-long exploration around the scenic landscapes of the Everest/Khumbu region of Nepal.
- Bone-chilling flight from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu to Tenzing–Hillary Airport, Lukla — one of the most extreme airports in the world
- You will walk through the amazing forests filled with rhododendron and juniper trees.
- A chance to learn Sherpa culture, values, and traditions
- You will visit the infamous and historical Tengboche Monastery.
- Enjoy the adventurous hike to Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp.
- Ascending and Descending the snow-capped Island Peak.
- Mouthwatering views of Mount Everest (8848m), Nuptse (7879m), Lhotse (8383m), Ama Dablam (6856m), Thamserku (6608m), Mount Cho Oyu (8201m), Mount Pumori (7161m), and other surrounding peaks
Is This Island Peak Climbing Right For You?
- The weather can be inconstant at higher altitudes as it can also affect your expedition and put it to a halt. You need to make sure that you consider the time of the year you wish to take on this climbing adventure, as the scenery and conditions vary between seasons.
- For about a week or more, you will have to walk for 5 to 7 hours, excluding the climbing of the Island Peak itself. So, make sure that you can take the challenge. It will be helpful if you have been practicing some kind of mountaineering exercise prior to the journey.
- Our skillfully planned itinerary gives you even more sightseeing of the youngest mountains in the world, holding an ample amount of time aside for adaptation and acclimatization.
- The tea houses that you will be staying throughout the trekking period are simple with some basic facilities. Access to electricity for charging your electronic devices will cost you extra. Wi-Fi is available at a few locations, but connections could be weak. However, you can get all the advanced facilities when you are staying in the hotel at Kathmandu.
- The most important part of the expedition includes the scaling of Island Peak. The climb is moderately challenging, so keep in check that you have some climbing experience before taking on this expedition.
- The expedition includes several days of camping over 3000 meters, where there is the risk of being struck by Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may notice shortness of breath and mild headaches, but your guide will make sure you walk gently to let your body adapt to the thinning air.
Our Sherpa guides are well-trained in first aid. They will be carrying emergency medicines to assist you in times of difficulty. In extreme cases, we will rescue you using a helicopter. If you are uncertain about your physical ability, you need to inquire about some medical advice before booking this campaign.
Day-to-Day Itinerary Table
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude | Duration |
| 1 | Arrival and Pick Up at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and Transfer to the Hotel | 1350m | - |
| 2 | Sightseeing Around Kathmandu Valley and Preparation for the Expedition | 1350m | - |
| 3 | Flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing–Hillary Airport, Lukla and Trek to Phakding | 2840m (Lukla)2650m (Phakding) | 40 minutes (flight)4 hours (trek) |
| 4 | Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 3440m | 4 hours |
| 5 | Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar and Khumjung Valley Excursion | 3440m (Namche Bazaar)3790m (Khumbu Valley) | 3 hours |
| 6 | Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche | 3850m | 6 hours |
| 7 | Trek from Tengboche to Pherichhe | 4270m | 5 hours |
| 8 | Trek from Pherichhe to Lobuche | 4910m | 4 hours |
| 9 | Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep Hike to Everest Base Camp | 5160m (Gorakshep)5364m (Everest Base Camp) | 5 hours |
| 10 | Trek from Gorakshep to Kalapatthar to Dingboche | 5554m (Kalapatthar)4350m (Dingboche) | 6 hours |
| 11 | Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung | 4700m | 3 hours |
| 12 | Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp | 5087m | 5 hours |
| 13 | Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to High Camp | 5500m | 3 hours |
| 14 | Summit of Island Peak and Trek to Chhukung | 6165m (Island Peak)4700m (Chhukung) | 6 hours |
| 15 | Trek from Chhukung to Tengboche | 3850m | 4 hours |
| 16 | Trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar | 3440m | 5 hours |
| 17 | Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla | 2840m | 6 hours |
| 18 | Flight from Tenzing–Hillary Airport, Lukla to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner Celebration | 1350m | 40 minutes |
| 19 | Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for Final Departure | 1350m | 0.5 hours |
Booking
Review
Nar phu valley trek with Kamal guide, perfect!
My partner and I went on a 9-day trek in the Nar and Phu Valley. Our Kamal guide was just perfect! Professional and very nice, he accompanied us along with the porter Prim throughout the itinerary, adapting it to our needs and desires. I don't think we could have fallen into better hands than Kamal, he promptly solved all the little problems we encountered, he was fantastic as was the porter Prim. Amazing experience thank you!
Nepal Social Treks Review
I’ve just completed the 15 day Everest Base Camp trek with Nepal Social Treks and can’t praise the company, guide & porter highly enough. My guide in particular, Lhakpa was an absolute star who could not do enough to make the time away as comfortable as possible. Considerate, knowledgeable, funny, kind & inspiring. I genuinely don’t think I could have completed the trek without their support! A lifetime ambition completed thanks :)
EBC by Gokyo
If you are planning to do the EBC, the Agency should be Nepal Social Trek and the Guide should be Santa Thabir Magar. Permanent communication during trekking and excellent coordination at all times. The alternative I recommend is Gokyo. Something heavier than the classic, but definitely extraordinary. Also the views of the great mountains during the circuit, are not to forget them
Ho prenotato il viaggio dall'italia. C'è stato qualche problema non dovuto all'agenzia perchè non sono partiti voli per giorni per l'everest e loro prontamente hanno sistemato tutto. Narayan, la mia guida e amrit il mio porter sono stati fantastici. Grazie grazie grazie
Great Anil Sherpa
Frequently Asked Questions
How Difficult Is Island Peak Climbing?
Though Island peak climbing is not technically challenging, it is physically demanding and is graded as Alpine PD+. This strenuous plus expedition rises to an altitude of 6189m / 20,305 feet and walks through steep and narrow trails and glacial moraines. While you will be provided with acclimatization days, one needs to be physically fit to take on this trek.
Do I Need Any Prior Climbing Experience For Island Peak?
Island Peak is a strenuous plus trek, which involves trekking as well as climbing with all the expedition equipment. Previous climbing experience certainly helps, but no prior experience is required for Island Peak climbing. Moreover, at Island Peak base camp, our climbing Sherpa will organize a special session on climbing skills and the use of climbing equipment. Some cardio and regular walks will certainly help prior to your arrival in Kathmandu. However, anyone with a pre-medical history needs to seek medical consent before considering the expedition.
Do I Need Travel Insurance For Emergency To Join Island Peak Climbing?
We strongly suggest you to have an all-inclusive travel insurance policy covering all the aspects of your adventure. However, we ensure you that there would be hardly any evacuations or any health catastrophe as your leader is medically trained and has ample knowledge to deal with any life threatening situation. But it's always wise to have insurance as your back up.
What Permits Are Required For Island Peak Climbing?
As for Island Peak climbing, you would need special Island Peak climbing permit along with (Everest) Sagarmatha National Park permits, and TIMS card (trekking information management system). We obtain these entire permit and travel documents for you.
What Do You Mean By Acute Mountain Sickness? How Can It Be Treated?
Acute mountain sickness is a negative health effect of high altitude caused by your body’s reaction to a shortage of oxygen. The amount of oxygen present at sea level is double of that contained at 5,000m above the sea-level. Your body needs sufficient time to adjust your breathing to the higher altitude. Above 2,800m, the effect of high altitude is experienced.
What are the symptoms of AMS?
The major symptoms of AMS include headache, nausea, loss of appetite, cough, and fatigue. If you feel any of these symptoms during the expedition, take rest and halt your adventure for that day.If your health deteriorates even while resting, return to a lower altitude. You should take proper rest until you feel okay. You can always abandon your expedition if you are not feeling well to complete it. Let your guides know if you are having issues during the expedition and act on their advice.
What do I need to get a Nepal Visa for the expedition?
To get Nepal visa, you need to have the following documents with you:
Two Passport-sized photos with a light background
Cash in USD to get the visa fee.
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months.
What is the provision for security during trekking?
Well, you should know that the security of our clients is paramount for us. We have a carefully chosen group of guides and support crew. They hold licenses issued by the Government of Nepal. They are honest and reliable to have on your journey.
However, we advise you to take care of your personal belongings. When you are camping, don’t leave your bags unattended at any time for your safety. Place your bags and belongings inside the tent once you reach the campsite. When you are sleeping in a local tea house, keep your room locked when you head out.
Should I have travel insurance for an emergency to be ready for Island Peak Climbing?
We suggest that you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers all the aspects of your adventure. However, we assure you that there will be hardly any evacuations or any health catastrophe throughout the expedition. Your leader is medically trained and has ample knowledge to deal with any type of life-threatening situation. Nevertheless, it is always helpful to have insurance as your back up.
What is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)? How can it be treated?
Acute mountain sickness is a severe health effect of high altitude caused by your body’s reaction to a shortage of oxygen. The amount of oxygen available at sea level is double that contained at 5000m above the sea level. Your body needs enough time to adjust your breathing to a higher altitude. You normally experience the effect of the high altitude above 2800 meters.
To prevent AMS, you should acclimatize your body when trekking to higher altitudes. Moreover, you should drink enough fluids and take rest immediately when you feel tired and dizzy.
What Are The Symptoms Of AMS?
Symptoms of AMS are headache, nausea, loss of appetite, coughing, and fatigue. If you’re feeling any of these while trip, rest and discontinue your trip for that day. If your health is getting worse while resting, return back to lower altitude. You should rest until you feel okay. Then, you can continue your trip. You can always abandon your trip if you’re not able to complete it. Let your guide know if you are having troubles during the trip and act on his advice.
Who will be my guide?
At Nepal Social Treks, we provide you some of the experienced local guides. Our expert guides have been to the relevant areas many times. All the guides are flexible, experienced, and authorized by the Government of Nepal.
Our guides are professionals on mountaineering with extensive knowledge on the Himalayas, more than 5 years of experience with at least 3 times summit of Mount Everest and are trained and assessed by the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) or Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) with many years of Mountaineering experience in the world’s highest mountains.
What is the overnight accommodation like?
When you are staying in Kathmandu, your accommodation will be in 3-star hotels packed with all the major facilities. On the other hand, when you are trekking, the accommodation will depend on the trek style. If you are camping, you will be sleeping in tents.
Besides, when you are on the go, there are plenty of tea houses, particularly in the smaller villages, to provide you comfortable accommodation. Although simple, the teahouses are run by local families and provide shelter and warmth.
What about drinking water during the expedition?
Your health and well-being are our priority, so only safe water is made available for drinking throughout the expedition. You can purchase bottled water from the hotels and lodges where we stay. Nevertheless, it is no harm in carrying the water purifier with you for proper purification. Other than that, you can pack some water-purifying tablets from Kathmandu for the road.
Are there any fatalities recorded on Island Peak?
Island Peak is a safe and easy mountain to ascend, which can be achieved by ordinary mountaineers. Yearly there are numerous climbers successfully summiting the Island peak. Being itself a typical peak for climbing, it holds a very low death rate, which seldom spots only by the climber’s negligence.
Trekking Gear List for Island Peak Climbing
The following are some of the essential trekking gear lists for island Peak Climbing:
Bags:
Daypack
Duffel Bag
Rucksacks
Waterproof Stuff Sacks (large and small)
Clothing:
Trekking Shirt - Pack 4 to 5 breathable trekking shirts, balancing both half and full sleeves
Thermal Layer - At least one pair of a thermal layer
Fleece Jacket - Pack a lightweight fleece jacket for the lower region
Trekking Shorts - Pack a couple of trekking shorts for lower reaches of the trek
Lightweight, long underpants - pack 2-3 pairs
Down pants
Trekking Trousers - Minimum 2 water and wind-resistant trekking pants
Mid-weight long underpants - pack 2-3 pairs
Down Jacket - Carry a high-quality down jacket to keep you warm from the extreme weather at the trek’s upper reaches
Waterproof Shell Jacket - One waterproof jacket to stay protected in the wet weather
Breathable Underwear - Carry at least 4 to 5 pairs of breathable and comfortable underwear
Footwears:
Trekking shoesSandals/TrainersHiking SocksThermal SocksGaiter (For Winter)
Head Wears:
Warm BeanieSun Protection HatBalaclavaFleece HatNeck Gaiter
Hand Wear:
A Pair of Inner GlovesA Pair of Outer GlovesHeavy gloves (mitten)
Sleeping Bags:
Sleeping Bag for Base Camp
Down Sleeping Bag - 20 to -40 degree celsius for extreme conditions
Thermarest Mattress (Cell Foam and Inflatable)
Medical:
First-Aid Kit
Bandages
Antibiotic
Ibuprofens
Diamox
Paracetamol
Handy Plaster
Tincture Iodine
Other Accessories:
UV Protection Sunglasses
Water Bottle
Water Purification Tablets
Toiletries
Wet Tissues
Soap
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Shampoo
Garbage Bag
Headlamp with Spare Batteries
Hand Sanitizers
Sunscreen/Lip Balm
Trekking Towels
Camera
Portable Chargers
Pocket Knife
Umbrella/Raincoat
Climbing Gear List for Island Peak Climbing
Here is the necessary climbing gear for Island Peak Climbing:
Climbing Boots
Summit Gloves
Climbing Helmet
Down jacket
Crampons
Ice Axe
Ice Tools
Belay Device
Harness
Ascender
Lock Carabiner
Unlock Carabiner
Tape Slings
Prusik Loops
Snow Goggle
Head Light
Satellite Phone
Hand Warmer
Inquiry Form
Inquiry Form
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