Important Information

Region
Peak climbing and Expedition
Duration
15 Days
Max Altitude 6189 meters
Best Season April-June & October - November
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 - 8 people
Transportation 2 way Flight

Imja Tse, Island Peak (6160m) is the best trekking peak in the Everest region for novice climbers to develop the skills of climbing on snow and ice at high altitudes.

Island Peak is the number one rating climbing peak in the Everest Region of Nepal which has (6,189m/20,305ft) heights. It is also known as Imja Tse.   It is the extension of Lhotse Shar which is very popular for trekking trails that can be reached crossing Everest Base Camp. The name of the peak is Island because it is located on the top of Chhukung Glacier, the peak is very challenging to climb but it is rated ‘moderate’; and although a good level of physical fitness is essential, previous climbing experience is not required.  From Dingboche, the Himalayas, and Island Peak are seen as a pyramid of ice and rock. The Himalayan ridge rising to the south from this point leads to the summit of Island Peak.

Island Peak Climbing and Trekking duration provides not only an enjoyable climb but also some of the most jaw-dropping scenery of the Himalayas in the Khumbu region which are the giant mountains, Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,501m), Lhotse Middle Peak (8,410m) and Lhotse Shar (8,383m) make a semi-circle in the north. One can see the views of Makalu (8475m) in the east, and Baruntse and Ama Dablam in the south. Island Peak Climbing has provided many more opportunities of viewing the Giant Himalayas and peaks of the Everest Region.

If you are not experienced in climbing don’t worry we are here for you. Our well-experienced climbing guides will support and guide you in all situations during your summit and trekking. It is well said that every mountain top is within reach if you just keep climbing. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information regarding this trek and climbing.

Why Imja Tse is called Island Peak?
The original name is Imja Tse in the Sherpa language and still, they call it Imja Tse. This peak is surrounded by icy mountains which appear as an island in the middle of the glaciers when you look from the Dingboche village of Khumbu Region. Later in 1953, Imja Tse was named Island Peak by members of the British Mount Everest expedition. So, Island Peak became more familiar with the mountaineering industry. 

If you are looking for a different itinerary than the one here, please Customize Your Trip. 

The Highlight of the Trip

  • Island Peak Climbing (6189m).
  • Wonderful View of the Mt. Everest.
  • Cultural Wonders of Everest Region.
  • Peaceful yet Adventurous walk all through the trip
  • Tengboche and Pangboche monasteries exploration.

Outline Itinerary ( 15 Days )

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by a representative of the Himalayan Wander Walkers. You will be checked into your hotel. You will meet our trekking operator for briefing about the entire trek on this day. You can either rest or hang out around a famous tourist area in Kathmandu, Thamel.

Accommodation: 3* Hotel with Breakfast

Day 2

Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2,651m) 3-4 hours.

Your trek to Everest base camp starts from today and you will be transferred to the airport and will enjoy a 40min short scenic flight to the Himalayan foothills. The views from the plane are stunning, providing dramatic sights of terraced hills and the distant giant Himalaya. After landing at Lukla airport, we walk for 3 hours to the town of Phakding with few ups and downs along the Dudh Koshi River.

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 3

Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3438) m 5-6 hours.

After breakfast, we continue trekking along the bank of the Dudh Koshi River and crossing this majestic river numerous times on exciting suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. After entering Sagamartha National Park, from Larja Dobhan, the trail climbs up steeply with breathtaking views to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region. 

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 4

Acclimatization day.

Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Namche is a colorful village with many wonderful and interesting shops and vendors, fabulous food, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. An early hike above town, before the clouds move in,  reward trekkers with a spectacular Himalayan sunrise and views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, the beautiful Ama Dablam, and many more. On the way down, we can visit the Sherpa Museum that houses an exhibit on a traditional Sherpa lifestyle and a fabulous photography display by a local Nepalese naturalist.

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)     

Day 5

Namche Bazar to Tengboche (3870m) 5-6 hours.

Today we will trek to Tengboche which is a beautiful day to walk. The trial is easy till Phunki and from there we climb to Tengboche village after crossing the Dudh Koshi River. Tengboche is famous for its monastery which is the biggest monastery of the Everest region. It is located within the Sagarmatha National Park which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery is blessed with panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. We will visit the monastery and the village in the afternoon.

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 6

Tengboche to Dingboche (4360m) 5hours.

The trail descends and passes through lush forests of birch, confer, and Rhododendron trees with the spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam which help to energies your trek. Then the path goes downhill to Debuche and crosses the Imja River to reach Pangboche. We choose the upper Pangboche trail and admire the Himalayan vista and the Pangboche Monastery. We continue our walk to the Imja Valley and Lobuche River before ascending to Dingboche. It is a breathtaking village with beautiful barley, potato and buckwheat field complete with grazing animals dotted along with those fields.

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 7

Acclimatization day.

Spending a day in Dingboche will help us to acclimate to the high altitude. On this free day, we climb a ridge located behind the village and see six of the world’s tallest peaks including Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Furthermore, we can also admire Cholatse and Taboche peaks. On our north-west we see more Himalayan peaks rising above the Khumbu Khola Valley. From another location on the ridge, we can also admire the picturesque Imja Khola Valley and the beautiful Dingboche village.

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 8

Dingboche to Chukung (4730m 3-4 hours).

Today we will walk to the Chhukhung Valley which is situated unswerving lower than a huge rock wall that connects Nuptse with Lhotse. From here, you will have magnificent views of Amadablam (6856 m.), definitely, the most photographed peak in Nepal. 

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 9

Chukung to Island peak Base camp at 5000m (2-3 hours).

We then walk beside the Imja Khola to reach Pareshaya Gyab, a pleasant place nearby a small lake with very beautiful views of the Nuptse-Lhotse wall and Lhotse Glacier. Once we set our camp here you can keep your climbing stuff in order and get ready for your climb of the peak tomorrow.

Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 10

Island Peak summit 6160m and back to Base Camp (8 hours).

We will begin walking up today early in the morning to reach the summit of Island peak. Here our walk becomes difficult once we arrive at the base of the sharp icefall beneath the peak. A great concern must be realized while going up the wall to come out on the periphery leading to the summit. After arriving at the summit, you will walk down to the Base Camp.

Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 11

Island peak Base Camp to Pangboche 4000m. (5 hour)

Today is easier to walk to descend to the lower altitudes. Following back the same route back as we came up. 

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 12

Pangboche To Namche Bazaar, 3440m, 5 hour

The track today will go down quite abruptly as we walk back to Namche Bazaar. To arrive at the camp and to reach our overnight spot, we will have a steep climb. 

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 13

Namche to Lukla. 2800m, 6 hour

We take our lunch in Phakding today and make the final way up to Lukla which becomes a surprise for the majority of the trekkers. We arrive at the airport in the early afternoon. Lukla is famous for celebrating the end of the trek. 

Accommodation: Tea house
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  

Day 14

Lukla to Kathmandu by Flight

We will wake up early in the morning and get ready for the entrance of our plane for returning back to Kathmandu. Then, we will transfer back to our hotel. Remaining day to explore Kathmandu.

 

Day 15

Fly back to your home country.

We are saying goodbye as your journey to Nepal comes to an end today. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3-4 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Himalayan Wander walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Accommodation: 3* Hotel with Breakfast.

 

Include

Airport/Hotel/Airport transfer
Three nightโ€™s 2** Star Hotel in Kathmandu.
Your standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking.
All Trekking & Climbing permit.
Necessary Trekking, Climbing equipment
Domestic Flight Ticket (Kathmandu to Lukla/ Kathmandu) / domestic airport Tax.
All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the treks.
An experienced, helpful and friendly Trekking and Climbing Guide, porters
Trek arrangements with tents, cook, and porter/s. NMA Registered Climbing Guide for trek and climbing.
Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel insurance company.
Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
All government taxes & Service charge.

Exclude

Nepal entry visa and International flight ticket.
Travel insurance.
Lunch dinner in Kathmandu.
Climbing boots.
All Bar bills and personal expenses( phone call, laundry service, battery recharge, a bottle of water, hot water, shower, a pot of tea, coffee, etc
Tips for the guide and porter.
International air ticket

Route Map

Island Peak Climbing

Important Information

Peak climbing is a second step after the normal trekking who wants to experience the adventure beyond the trekking. There are more than 1300 peak with 6000 meters among which only one quarter of them are officially opened for climbing Nepal government.

Apart from mountaineering expedition, we also offer numbers of trekking peaks with altitude ranging between 5000m to 6600m for well experienced trekkers and beginner climbers. It obvious that all kind of climbing need technical skill and experience guide which Himalayan Wander Walkers provides you. Peak climbing in Nepal offers the best adventure trekking and expedition experience to all kinds of Himalayan Wander Walkers is a specialized in organizing climbing training course at base camp before the summit start.

CHECKLISTS FOR ISLAND PEAK CLIMBING

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, some cash is highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators, then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)
  • Clothing (Layered clothes, windproof and waterproof jackets,  fleece pullovers, thermal base layers, hiking pants, shorts, headwear, footwear, and other items according to your needs)
  • Personal Items and Toiletries (First-Aid Kit, Iodine tablets or a UV purifier to treat water, Sun Protection)
  • Travel and Health Insurance
  • Trekking gear and equipment(if you have your own trekking gear and equipment, such as trekking poles, sleeping bag, and shoes, then you can bring them; else you can rent them in Thamel, Kathmandu). Read more for trekking gears and peak climbing gears.

Guiding, Food, and Camping
In Nepal, all trekking supplies - camping equipment, kitchen implements, food - are all carried by pack animals like mules, Yaks, and horses. Even Porters are common in Nepal. All trekkers are accompanied by a guide, a cook, and usually at least one horseman or yak herder. With the surest footing; they lead trekking groups across the passes. The horseman and cook will usually run ahead during a trekking day. They will have prepared a packed lunch for hikers and will go on to the night’s resting place to set up camp. They set up tents, cook dinner, and ready the area for arriving trekkers. When trekkers reach the campsite they are greeted with a hot cup of tea and biscuits in the dining tent. After six hours in the mountains, no drink will ever taste sweeter. For dinner, the cook will usually prepare a buffet of dishes that are as welcome as they are delicious.

Note regarding itineraries.
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently Asked Question

๐Ÿ”
Can I customize the Island Peak Climbing Packages?
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Yes, you can customize this package to fit your schedule and preferences. Whether you want to modify the trek's length, add rest days, or add side treks along the route, we'll collaborate with you to tailor the experience to your liking. Just let us know what you're looking for, and we'll make the necessary adjustments: "Customize Your Journey."

Where is Island Peak located?
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Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is located in the Khumbu region of Nepal within Sagarmatha National Park. It sits between Dingboche and Chhukung villages in the Everest region. From Chhukung village, it takes 2-3 hours to reach Island Peak Base Camp, making it easily accessible during the Everest Base Camp trek.

What is the altitude of Island Peak?
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Island Peak stands at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) above sea level. This height classifies it as a trekking peak, making it accessible to climbers with moderate mountaineering experience. The summit offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

Is a peak climbing guide necessary for Island Peak Climbing?
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Yes, an experienced climbing guide is highly recommended and often mandatory. Nepal's regulations require certified guides for most trekking peaks for safety and legal compliance. Guides provide route finding, technical instruction, safety management, emergency response, and handle permits.

What is the best time of the year to climb Island Peak?
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The best season for the Island Peak Climb are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring offers stable weather and warmer temperatures but can be crowded. Autumn provides crystal-clear mountain views and stable conditions. Winter is extremely cold and challenging, while monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy snow and poor visibility, making climbing unsuitable.

How much does Island Peak climbing cost?
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Island Peak climbing costs $2,100.00 (All-inclusive price) per person. However, the total cost depends on several factors including season (peak season costs more than off-season), service level, transportation (flight or land transport), guide and porter ratio, and many more. Contact us for a customized quote based on your specific preferences and travel dates.

What fitness level is required for Island Peak Climbing?
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You should be capable enough of hiking 6-8 hours daily for consecutive days while carrying a backpack (although all your heavy bags will be carried by porters if you have asked for any). Train with cardiovascular exercises for 3-4 months beforehand and some other regular exercise to keep your body fit for altitude changes. 

How do I prepare mentally and physically for Island Peak Climbing?
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 Start physical preparation 4-6 months early with cardiovascular training, strength exercises, and weighted backpack hiking. Practice with mountaineering equipment especially with  crampons and ice axes. Mental preparation includes route research, developing coping strategies, and managing expectations. 

Will I get altitude sickness during Island Peak Climbing?
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Usually, altitude sickness is common above 2,500 meters of elevation, and since the Island Peak climb will take you to 6,189 meters, you might face some symptoms of it, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Prevention requires proper acclimatization, which involves gradual ascent and rest days. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and follow the "climb high, sleep low" principle. Most itineraries include acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Chhukung.

Do I need insurance for Island Peak Climbing?
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 Yes, peak climbing insurance is essential. Your policy must cover high-altitude mountaineering activities up to 6,200 meters and include emergency helicopter rescue and other medical treatment coverage. The insurance protects you against altitude sickness and any medical emergency. Many trekking and peak climbing agencies will ask for the insurance paper during or before your trek booking.

What are the accommodations and food arrangements during Island Peak climbing?
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During trekking, the accommodation includes comfortable tea houses with private/shared rooms and varied food options whereas at Base Camp, accommodation is in tents with provided sleeping gear. Food includes dal bhat, noodles, soups, with options becoming limited at higher altitudes.

What equipment or gear do I need for Island Peak Climbing?
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For the Island Peak climbing, the essential gear includes mountaineering boots, crampons, a harness, a helmet, an ice axe, a down jacket, waterproof layers, warm gloves, glacier glasses, and a 4-season sleeping bag. Technical equipment, such as ropes, is provided by climbing companies. Many items can be rented in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar. Read more about peak climbing gear and equipment.

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