The Imja Tse, also known as Island Peak (6189m) in the world, lies in the East of Nepal. It derives its name from a mountain climber named Eric Shipton in 1951 because the hill appears to be an island surrounded by an ice field. Island Peak descends to the southern tip of Lhotse Shar, which was used by Sir Edmund Hilary as a training peak during his trek towards Mount Everest. The objective of this 14-day trek is to climb Island Peak, which was also used by Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hilary as a training peak. There are challenging hikes in the Khumbu region that give you the best views in the world. Among them are the panoramic views of other peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Baruntse, and more.

Overview

From Kathmandu, we begin our Island peak journey by traversing into Lukla. The route then crosses Phakding, climbing and descending many uneven trails along the way. After crossing a number of high suspension bridges in the dense pine and cedar forest, we reach the heart of Khumbu, Namche Bazaar. As an acclimatization point, we walk to the famous Namche Bazaar (3440 m.) for spectacular views of the Everest range, then hike up to the Everest View hotel.

Along our journey, we will encounter Sherpas in the region. Being part of their hospitality and having them serve us is another subtle but essential aspect of this trek. Visit the famous Sherpa settlements of Dingboche (Summer Valley) and get an idea of the way of life of other ethnicities in this part of the world.

Island Peak Climb Itinerary

From Kathmandu, we will fly to Lukla, situated 2804m above sea level. Once we reach Lukla, we will trek to Cheplung, where we will see the beautiful view of Mt. Khumbila, a sacred peak. After passing through lush surroundings and the breathtaking views of Kusum Kanguru, we will arrive at Phakding. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the overnight stay at the guesthouse.

After leaving Phakding, we will trek for approximately 6 hours to Namche Bazaar. The breathtaking views on our way will captivate anyone. Soon after entering Sagarmatha National Park, we will reach the Jorsale Village. Our trek will then take us on an uneven trail; through a forest of pines and cedars and over suspension bridges. After a challenging hike, we will arrive at Namche Bazaar, the major settlement in the Everest region, which is surrounded by snowy peaks and where the Sherpas live.

It will be a day of acclimatization in Namche Bazaar today. We can explore Namche Bazaar or hike to Everest View Hotel for views of Everest, Amadablam, Lhotse, Tawache, and more. Our tour will also include a visit to the Everest Photo Gallery and the Sherpa Culture Museum while returning to Namche Bazaar. We will spend the night in a guesthouse and include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

After descending into the Dudh Koshi valley from Namche, we will make our way up to Tengboche via the Dudh Koshi valley and the stunning Everest views. At 3860 meters, you can visit the famous Tengboche monastery and enjoy the beautiful backdrop of Mt. Amadablam, Mt. Everest, and many other peaks. Overnight at a guest house, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

The walk from Tengboche to Dingboche takes about five hours. From Dingboche, we will continue to Debuche and cross another suspension bridge over the Imja River. We will also climb to Pangboche, situated between massive Mani stones. We will depart Pangboche and make our way to the attractive Sherpa settlement of Dingboche, also known as 'the summer valley,' which offers stunning views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak.

On this day, you would trek for about six hours to 5100m, the high point of your acclimatization. After breakfast, you would ascend Nagerjun (5100m), which is situated on the flanks of the Chhukung valley just above Dingboche. The main objective is to climb high and sleep low.

After Dingboche, it takes approximately six days to reach Island Peak Base Camp. We will follow the Imja Valley for the first few days, which will reward us with incredible views of Ama Dablam. Afterward, we will follow the moraines that rise up from Lhotse at 8501m until we reach Pareshaya Gyab, a smooth, flat area at 5240m. Finally, we will reach Island Peak Base Camp, situated at 5250m.

As well as learning peak climbing skills, you will also get expert instruction on how to use climbing equipment such as an ice axe, crampons, harness, etc. Having the guidance of our veteran guides will have a big impact on your confidence in reaching the summit.

 

It is the most important day of the trek because today, we will reach the peak of Island Peak, which stands at 6189m. We will start early in the morning since we will be walking for approximately 11 hours. Then we will climb up to the rocky gorge in order to reach an edge line that will bring us to the glacier's muzzle. Once at the top, we will be able to take in the amazing view. After that, we will return to base camp.

The weather is never guaranteed to be favorable on our planned summit day (day 13), so we plan to use this day as a contingency plan in case we cannot summit Island Peak on day 13 due to poor weather conditions. The summiting program will have to be postponed if the weather becomes unbearably unfavorable. In some cases, someone in the group may have trouble acclimatizing or may not be fit enough to make the ascent - but this spare day can still be used if the trip goes smoothly. If the trip goes smoothly, it is not necessary to use the spare day.

A member of the group may have difficulty acclimatizing as well or may not be able to handle the ascent; the spare day can still be used in that situation. If the trip goes smoothly, we do not need this spare day.

We trek along the Dudh Koshi River until we reach our destination, a small mountain airstrip at Lukla, where we catch our return flight to Kathmandu the next day. We stay overnight at the guesthouse, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day.

The views of the mountains will delight you for the last time during your 30-minute flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. As you arrive at the airport in Kathmandu, you will be taken to your hotel. Finally, the amazing tour comes to a conclusion.

Cost includes:

  • Arrival & Departure transport via private Car/Van/Bus.
  • Three meals per day throughout the Trip(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Accommodation during the trek.
  • Nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with B/B.
  • Guide and a porter with Insurance, food, and accommodations.
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara valley with a car and tour guide
  • First Aid kit.
  • Trekking permit (Conservation fee).
  • TIMS card (Trekking information management system) is like a permit.
  • All needed government tax/vat.

Cost excludes:

  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Sightseeing entrance fees
  • Nepal Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days and US$ 30 for 15 days; you should get a visa open your arrival)
  • Any kind of drinks, items of personal expenses like hot shower, battery charge, telephone, missing meal, WIFI Porters, etc.
  • Tips for Guide and Porters

After you’ve enjoyed the thrilling and joyful experience, you can choose whether to visit other beautiful places in Nepal or head back home. No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic time.

We can accommodate group tours for this trip; however, you may also opt for a private tour according to your liking. We can arrange private trips at any time of the year at any date of your choosing. Please let us know what your preferred travel dates are so that we can accommodate you.

Finally, When you are ready to start adventures in Nepal, it is time to begin thinking about what to pack. If you are ready to book but aren’t sure when is the best time to trek or what to stay in, Pokhara Info has got you covered. You can figure out these queries through our site. We can also be found on Facebook and Instagram, and other social media sites. Hope you have a good time in Nepal, and thank you for visiting!