Duration
20 days
Max. Elevation
6130m
Group size
2+ Above
Everest base camp with Island Peak Climbing is a blend of an exciting adventure. Make every trekker's and climber's dreams come true with high success, as our itinerary is designed in a great way.
To make the climb safe and easier with ample days for rest and acclimatization visit Everest base camp. As well as a climb of high Kalapathar Hill that will allow much exercise before the actual ascent to Island Peak. Island Peak rises at a height of 6,189 m /20,305 feet high, the peak is also called Imjatse Himal.
As it is located above scenic Imjatse Valley, with the surrounding giant mountains of Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, and Amadablam North-East Face. Louche peak climbing is also known as very popular climbing. The name Island peak is tagged by early western mountaineers and explorers, as the stunning mountain appears like an Island. Situated amidst the wide beautiful valley of Imjatse within close reach of the last human settlement of Chukung and Dingboche.
Island Peak is a perfect mountain for all types of adventurers and trekkers, that leads you to an alpine-style climb. Within a day of more than 7-8 hours, as per the physical and technical ability of climbers. It was first climbed by Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and some fellow members of Everest Expeditions way back in 1953.
Island Peak was climbed as a practice climb before Mt. Everest was summited, at present. One of the most popular trekking peaks for all climbers and trekkers due to its accessibility and high success. Island Peak climb grading we have used from famous French and Swiss Alpine Style Climbing Classification Systems as PD + This means a mountain with a straightforward climb with some technical section to tackle ice, rocks, and snow.
Everest base camp and Island Peak Climb begins from Lukla after a scenic short flight from Kathmandu. An interesting walk where your heavier baggage will be laden on pack animals called Jhopkyo. A crossbreed of a yak and normal cow/ox as well carried by strong cheerful porters.
From Lukla, our expert guide leads you past the nice farm villages of Sherpa, the main mountain tribes of Everest. As well as spread around the North East Himalaya region known as the famous highlanders of the Himalayas. Where Sherpa is famously known as a world record holder for mountaineering various peaks of the Himalayas.
The walk takes you to enter Sagarmatha National Park, which is listed as World Heritage Site. The park is enriched with exotic flora/fauna with the world's highest peaks, the name Sagarmatha for Everest in Nepal. While the local Sherpa call as Chomolungma is of Tibetan origin language, you can notice a similar culture to Tibetan Buddhism.
A wonderful walk of gradual visiting and staying overnights in the comfort of a nice lodge at the famous Namche Bazaar. Spending rest days for acclimatization and then on the road to our main target to reach Everest base camp. Where trek leads on the scenic trail and serene cool forest to the beautiful location at Tengboche.
A place with an impressive monastery surrounded by green woodland with an awesome panorama of snow peaks. From here enjoy views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse with magnificent-looking Mt. Ama Dablam. From here onwards tree lines fade as the walk reaches you at Everest base camp after a few overnights. Staying in Dingboche and Lobuche within the high Khumbu valley and to our first destination of the adventure. Enjoy tremendous views of towering peaks that surround you at base camp, within close reach of Khumbu Ice-Fall and glaciers.
After an exciting moment climb up to the top of Kalapathar rocky hill at 5,545 m the highest spot. That is on trekking before the climb of Island Peak, from hereafter catching an amazing panorama of high peaks. Includes closest views of Mt. Everest, and then towards our final highlight and destinations to Island Peak base camp and Best time to climb Island peak.
On Island Peak climb stay in a tented camp for a few nights, with time for rest and checking climbing gear. Then getting ready for the big approach to the summit of the Island peak. Our expert guide leads you safe and sound to the top encountering a few tough sections to negotiate. From the top enjoy breathtaking scenery, steeped with the world's highest peaks and feel tired but in an exciting mood.
Achieving one of the biggest experiences of a lifetime adventure. Then head safely back to Lukla for the last overnight around the high Khumbu and Everest area. Where next early morning a sweeping panoramic flight brings you to Kathmandu. After a great wonderful adventure on Everest base camp and Island Peak Climb.
The weight of your heavy winter clothes, plus 8 to 11 kg of your bag, add to the difficulty. These are some of the reasons why Summit Island Peak's physical fitness is essential.
It is especially suitable for those trekking enthusiasts who want to start their mountaineering experience. It will be reasonably easy for experienced hikers with a high level of fitness. Even if you have no prior climbing expertise, you should be confident when trekking at high altitudes. Basic mountaineering abilities are desirable but not required as the team will provide pre-climb instruction. If you have a pre-existing heart or lung condition, or if you have knee weakness, you should consult your doctor first to see if you can achieve climbing.
As altitude increases, the amount of oxygen available decreases. Furthermore, the rapid increase in temperature can cause altitude sickness in some people. Vomiting, fainting, nausea, and headache are some of the early symptoms that hikers may experience. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their level of fitness. Hence, it is comfortable and good to travel at a leisurely pace.
Our trip leaders and guides are trained in wilderness first aid. If a trekker falls ill, your trek guide has the right to decide to continue the trek or dismount immediately based on the overall condition of the trekking team. In the event of an emergency, we will deploy a rescue helicopter to bring you to safety (funded by insurance). Furthermore, we will travel together for the safety of the group.
Important Items: Airline tickets; Valid passport; 2 extra passport size photos; Photocopy of your passport; Insurance paper; Dollars, Pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying at restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks and to purchase your own drinks and gifts; Credit Card (Visa/ Master Card) for withdrawing cash from cash machines if needs.
For Head: Sun Hat; Bandana or head scarf; Headlamp with extra batteries; Sun Glasses with UV protection.
For Upper Body: Shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves); Lightweight thermal tops; Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater; Wind Cheater jacket; Down Jacket
For Lower Body: 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms; 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers; 1 pair of waterproof shell pants and 1 pair of hiking trousers.
For Hands: 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves and 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
For Feet: 2 pairs of thin inner socks; 2 pairs of poly or wool socks; 1 pair of Hiking boots (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support); 1 pair of running shoes and/or sandals.
Other Useful Items: 1 sleeping bag (good to -22 degrees C or 29 degrees F); Rucksack and Travel Bags; 1 large duffel bag, A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables; Small padlocks for duffel- bags; 2 large waterproof rucksacks covers (optional).
Medical: Your daily taking medicine if any; small personal first aid kit; Aspirin, plasters (band-aids); Sunscreen; lip balms; Anti-diarrhea pills; Anti-headache pills; A cough and/or cold medicine; Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide; Stomach antibiotic.
Digital camera; 2 water bottles (1 liter each); disposable rubbish sacks; Toiletries: 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel; Toothbrush/paste; multi-purpose soap; Deodorants; Nail clippers; Face and body moisturizer; Tissue /toilet roll; hiking poles, snack food (chocolate/ biscuits); umbrella; reading book or pack of cards (for leisure time during trekking).
Note: If any items are not available in your hometown you can buy them in Trekking Store in Kathmandu before you embark on trekking.
Important Note
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3Departure from the hotel as early as possible by the latest 5:30 a.m. or 6 a.m. Having breakfast, and leaving unwanted items for storing in the hotel. Our staff and guide will transfer you for the short drive to Kathmandu domestic airport. After checking in for security, and then proceed to an airfield to board a small aircraft, either Dornier or Twin Otter. With a maximum of 15 to 18 seated planes, as the plane lifts off enjoy a panorama of Himalayan peaks, where the route leads North East with views of Mt. Everest as the plane makes landing at a small airfield in Lukla.
The airport is named Tenzing and Hillary, a tribute to the first legendary conqueror of Mt. Everest. At Lukla getting organized with the heavier baggage to be carried by porters and on pack animals known as Jhopkyo (a mixed breed of Yak and lower region cows or ox). The trail leads around many lovely Sherpa villages adorned with Buddhist prayer walls and monuments to reach Phakding for an overnight stay in a nice moderate lodge.
Day
4Walk today takes you to the famous Namche Bazaar the hub of Khumbu villagers, as well as trekkers. Where once a week, a colorful and busy market is held every Saturday walk leads to cross a few bridges over Dudh Koshi glacial rivers to reach the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, where a ticket to be shown purchased.
Sagarmatha for Everest in Nepal, while the Sherpa is known as Chomolungma of Tibetan origin language. From here reach the last village of Jorsalle before Namche Bazaar, for a lunch break, and then continue to walk following the river on a bank, within the cool shade of pine and rhododendron forest.
On crossing the last high bridge, along undulating uphill for a few hours to reach Namche Bazaar for two overnight stops. Enjoy the views of Kwangde and Tharmasarku peaks from the lodge in Namche and then check into your rooms for refreshing rest before dinner time in a large warm and cozy dining hall.
Day
5Free day in Namche for necessary rest and a short hike to viewpoints which is a good way to support acclimatization. Enjoy a leisurely morning with breakfast and hike to Namche viewpoint overlooking Mt. Everest and the beautiful peak of Ama Dablam with other adjoining peaks. Visit the museum offers full information about the Khumbu region.
Energetic people can take a hike up to Everest View Hotel for a few hours, as well one can spend the day exploring Khumjung and Khunde villages. This is quite different from Namche Bazaar with many traditional houses located in a glacial valley.
Day
6The morning after breakfast, an easy stroll after a short climb to the top of Namche facing excellent views of Khumbu peaks with Everest, and then down to Imjatse River at PhunkiTenga, a small settlement popular mid-day stops of trekkers for lunch or refreshments. From here on steep winding uphill for some hours within the cool forest to reach a small scenic plateau at Tengboche and its colorful monastery.
The area is surrounded by an array of peaks with grand views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam with a range of adjoining high mountains. Herewith is time to visit the impressive monastery interior of great Buddhism religion interest and then retire back to your lodge for the rest of the afternoon.
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7From Tengboche enjoy the morning views of snow-capped peaks while you have breakfast, and then the day starts with an easy descent to reach a strong metal bridge. On crossing the bridge above Imjatse River, a slow uphill climb to Pangboche village with the closest views of beautiful Ama Dablam.
From here onward tree lines disappear for short bushes of juniper and dwarf rhododendron bushes. The walk takes you higher to reach scenic Imjatse valley, where Dingboche is located for an overnight halt, facing the first view of Island Peak towards the east of the valley floor.
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9Slowly our adventure heads towards our first highlight to reach Everest base camp and climb Kalapathar high hilltop. The morning starts with a steep climb of less than half an hour to a ridge festooned with prayer flags and Buddhist monuments. Enjoy the great views, as the walk continues on easy up to reach a small settlement of Thugla.
Where massive Khumbu glaciers melt into torrential cold streams. A favorite stop for trekkers heading both ways to Everest base camp, Lobuche, or down to Dingboche and Pheriche valley. After lunch at Thugla, afternoon an hour climb towards Thugla's small pass where you can notice many tombs and memorials of unfortunate climbers.
After a short good rest, a slow and easy walk but strenuous due to thin air and high altitude to reach the overnight stop at Lobuche. Lobuche at 4,940 m / 16,210 feet, situated about 150 km (93 mi) east of Kathmandu, located near the foot of Khumbu Glacier, approx. 8.5 km South-West from Everest Base Camp.
Day
10Today, our walks lead to one of the highlights at Everest base camp, although a short distance. But takes strenuous hours of walking due to high altitude and air pressure. Start on the easy path and up above Khumbu glaciers over moraines of rocks to reach Gorakshep.
The highest human settlement before base camp with few lodges to stay for overnights after visiting Everest base camp. From Gorakshep heed slowly taking more than two hours to reach base camp, feeling wonderful. Standing beneath the world's tallest peaks and close to massive Khumbu icefalls and glaciers. Enjoy the stupendous scenery of high giant snow peaks then back to Gorakshep for an overnight stop, after a great day's adventure.
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11Early morning climb to the highest rocky hilltop of Kalapathar, which means black rock. A vigorous steep climb due to altitude gain but worth it as you stand on top, overlooking the grand panorama.
Where Mt. Everest will be at the closest distance with Mt. Pumori ahead after a breathtaking moment descends back to Gorakshep. After breakfast continue treks downhill past Lobuche and Thugla, and walk above Dingboche to reach the last settlement in Chukung.
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12Morning with leisure time for breakfast, from here for a few overnights staying in tented camps, with food prepared by our camping cook and kitchen staff. Walk towards Imjatse valley to reach the base of Island peak, as the climb leads over the moraine.
Includes a few icy streams to cross and then end the morning walks near a place called Parsya Grab. Where our base camp is located near a small glacial pond, the rest of the afternoon rest and preparation for the climb.
Day
13A most climber takes the challenge to the summit of Island Peak from base camp. But it is always safe and best to add one more high camp before the summit day. As well as to scout the route of the climb, where our guide will make necessary arrangements ahead for the early next morning climb.
On reaching the exact spot to establish a high camp and finding level ground to pitch tents. Afternoon relaxes and check your gear, as well with some practice ice climbing and then rest with early dinner.
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14Start early morning before the break of dawn, as climb leads across glacier climb with care following our lead climbing guide. Where there are few crevasses to avoid, as the climb takes you due straight north over snow-covered scree in-between a glacier to a top ridge.
The climb takes you over rocks and icefall section, a steep snow and ice ramp to negotiate at about 100 meters (300 feet) to reach on top of the summit. The last leg of the climb is always tiring and feeling much excited about reaching the summit top. The highest point of the adventure at 6,189 m /20,305 feet high, facing a spectacular panorama of surrounding giant peaks.
Includes view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, and Mt. Makalu the four world's highest peaks with a wide range of lesser mountain ranges. Feeling on top of the world, then make a safe descent on the same route to base camp for the last overnight in tents.
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20One of the best classification systems on alpine-style climbing, which is popular and widely used and much simple to understand the nature of the climb. We have been using the French / Swiss Alpine Climbing in all our climbing trips and expeditions.
Normally we have a minimum of 2-3 people and a maximum of 4 to 12 persons also, depending upon the time of booking and trip departure for Island Peak Climb. Where interested climbers need to book at least a minimum of a month, so that we can suggest all other people to join in, then we know after the booking is closed with how many were have joined in for Island Peak Climb. In some cases, we also arrange for solo or a single person also, where the cost comes slightly higher than in a group.
Yes only for a few days during the climb from the base camp of Island Peak, after leaving the last lodge accommodation of Chukung. Where tented camp will be well organized with all meals included, prepared by our expert cook with separate kitchen cooking varieties of dishes to keep you healthy and fit for the climb.
Springtime from March to May is good for Island Peak to climb as well as trekking to Everest base camp when most days are clear for views and pleasant walks. Cold in the morning and from late afternoon till night time, chances of snowfall sometimes during the trek and climb.
Next, the best season is in autumn from September to November, where days clear most of the time, but with shorter sun-light hours. Much a colder morning and nighttime but with the bright starry night sky.
Only at Lukla and Namche Bazaar facilities to change the money as well with ATM. From Namche onward, there are no banks or ATMs, but some lodge owners can accept the foreign bills and will exchange them into local currencies as per the standard rate, or slightly higher.
