Island Peak Climbing - 18 days

Things to Know
  • Duration18 Days
  • Difficulty Level Technical Challenging
  • Altitude 6,189m Island Peak
  • Trip Type Trekking/Climbing & Camping
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time Mar-May, Sep-Nov
What You’ll Do
  • Summit Island Peak (6,189 m) – Experience a rewarding high-altitude 6000-meter climb in the heart of Nepal’s Khumbu region.
  • Everest Base Camp Trek & Kala Patthar Hike – Complete the classic Everest Base Camp trek and conquer Kala Patthar for iconic Himalayan views.
  • Explore the Khumbu Region – Trek through the eastern Himalaya of Nepal, experiencing stunning landscapes, glacial valleys, and lush forests.
  • Sherpa Culture & Buddhist Heritage – Discover the rich culture of the Sherpa people and visit historic monasteries in Namche, Tengboche, and Pangboche.
  • Sagarmatha National Park Adventure – Trek inside Nepal’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to unique wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
  • Imja Lake Views – Enjoy spectacular views of Imja Lake, the glacial lake at the base of Island Peak.
  • Pre-Climb Training by Certified Guides – Receive hands-on guidance and technical training at Island Peak Base Camp to prepare for your summit.
  • Panoramic Himalayan Views – Witness some of the world’s most famous peaks including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.
  • Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage Sites – Explore cultural landmarks in Kathmandu before your trek begins.
  • Fully Guided & Supported – Our expert mountain crew provides full support, ensuring a safe, memorable, and well-organized expedition from start to finish.

Island Peak (6,189m), locally known as Imja Tse, is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking peaks and an excellent choice for climbers looking to experience their first Himalayan peak climb. Your climbing guide will provide practical training on the use of crampons, ice axe, climbing ropes, and other essential equipment before the summit attempt. For your safety and better climbing support, we normally arrange one experienced climbing guide for every 3–4 climbers, depending on the group’s experience. The adventure begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, then follows the classic Everest route through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. You will visit Everest Base Camp and hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for spectacular views of Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After completing the Everest Base Camp section, the route takes a more adventurous turn toward Lobuche and Kongma La Pass (5535m), eventually reaching the beautiful Chhukung Valley. From here, the focus shifts to Island Peak climbing. At Island Peak Base Camp, you will stay in tents and prepare for the summit push. The climb usually begins during the early morning hours to take advantage of better mountain conditions. Reaching the summit as the first light spreads across the Himalayas is an unforgettable experience. After descending from the summit, you return through Chhukung, Dingboche, Namche Bazaar, and Lukla, completing an exciting combination of Everest Base Camp Trek and Island Peak Climbing.

Preparation for Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek

Island Peak Climbing with the Everest Base Camp Trek requires good physical fitness, mental preparation, and proper acclimatization. Regular walking, jogging, cycling, hiking, or other endurance activities in the months before your trip can help prepare you for long days in the mountains. Previous trekking or climbing experience is helpful, but it is not essential. The most important factors are your fitness, ability to adapt to high altitude, and willingness to follow your guide’s advice. You should also be comfortable walking for around 5–7 hours a day on varied terrain with frequent ascents and descents. The route passes through beautiful Sherpa villages, valleys, and mountain landscapes, while the Island Peak section requires basic climbing skills. Our climbing guides provide training on essential equipment and techniques before the summit attempt. A positive mindset and proper preparation are equally important. If you have any existing health concerns, we recommend consulting your doctor before the trip and informing our team in advance so we can plan your itinerary and acclimatization appropriately.

Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

  • Altitude1400 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time1-2 hours

One of our officials will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, upon your arrival. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle.

  • Altitude2650 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time35 mins flight from Kathmandu, 5-6 hrs drive & 20 mins flights from Manthali, & 3-4 hrs trek

Prepare your luggage for the trek the day before the flight. We will provide duffel bags, You will be arriving at the Lukla  Airport early in the morning. Breakfast in Lukla. Porters will meet group in Lukla,guide will manage all your arrangements, after somerest you will start your trek to Phakding. 

Manthali to Lukla Flight (March, April, May, September, October and November)
During peak seasons, such as March, April, May, September, October and November, the flight to Lukla will be operated from Ramechhap/Manthali due to air traffic expansion. The Manthali airport is about a 5 hours drive from Kathmandu. On this day, we up at 2 am, then transfer to manthali via tourist vechile, and board a 20-minute flight to Lukla.

Kathmandu to Lukla Flight (January, February, June, July, August and December)
The flight to Lukla is typically operated from Kathmandu during non-peak seasons, which include January, February, June, July, August and December. You will transfer to domestic airport terminal in Kathmandu, where you will board a 35-minute flight to Lukla.

  • Altitude3440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

The day begins with a delicious breakfast and begins the journey along the bank of the Dudh Koshi River. Likewise, you will cross the river several times over suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. As you enter the Sagarmatha National Park, the trail starts to get steep with amazing views. Overnight stay at Namche.

  • AltitudeHotel Everest View (3,880m)
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time4-5 hrs

You spend the day exploring and acclimatizing in Namche. A short hike to Hotel Everest View (3,880m) rewards you with a stunning panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. We will visit the Hillary school and also visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, Everest Photo Gallery, and the Khumjung Monastery, home to the legendary Yeti Scalp. This rest day isn’t just about recovery, it’s about immersing yourself in the spirit of the Khumbu region.

  • Altitude3860 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

Today as well, the trek continues through the Dudh Koshi River with a spectacular view of mountains. Walking for 5 hours, you will reach Tengboche village. Visit Tengboche Monastery which is beautifully decorated with wall hanging, footsteps of Buddha, prayer flags, and musical instruments. Overnight stay at Tengboche

  • Altitude4410 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

At the first phase of the trek, you will descend to Debuche and cross a suspension bridge over Imja Khola. After crossing the bridge, the trail continues to climb to Pangboche. The trek continues uphill for 5 hours leading to the beautiful Village of Dingboche. It is a traditional Sherpa Village that rewards the views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam.

  • AltitudeNangkartsang Peak (5,083 m)
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time4-5 hours

This is your second acclimatization day, we take a day to acclimatize to the increasing altitude. In this day you will hike to Nangkar Tsang Peak, where there are great views of Makalu.  This hike will take 3.5 to 5 hours, there and back.

  • Altitude4938m
  • AccommodationTea house
  • Time5-6 hrs

From Dingboche onwards, the trail becomes rugged and more remote. After breakfast, we leave Dingboche and walk uphill to a ridge.Today, we climb gradually through a rocky terrain to Thukla, where stone memorials honour climbers who lost their lives on Everest. It’s a humbling moment that reminds you of the power and respect these mountains command.From there, we continue upward to Lobuche, a small settlement nestled beneath towering peaks. The landscape is stark and beautiful- a world of ice, stone, and silence.

  • Altitude5545 m
  • AccommodationTea House

Today we make our way to the final settlement before Everest Base Camp for an overnight stay. In the afternoon, we hike from Gorakshep to Kala Pattar, the best vantage point to view Mount Everest up close. Standing at 5,545 m, Kala Pattar offers stunning panoramic views, and the sunset here is truly unforgettable. We recommend timing the hike in the afternoon to experience the golden light over Everest and the surrounding peaks. After soaking in the scenery and taking plenty of photos, we return to Gorakshep for the night.

  • Altitude4910 m
  • AccommodationTea house
  • Time9-10 hours

Early in the morning, we hike to Everest Base Camp, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Khumbu Glacier and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After soaking in the scenery, we return to Gorakshep for lunch, then continue our trek back to Lobuche for an overnight stay.

  • Altitude4730 chhukung
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hrs

Today, we cross the famous Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), one of the highest and most spectacular passes in the region. The trek offers stunning views of Ama Dablam, Amphu Labtsa, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. After this high-altitude adventure, we descend and continue to Chhukung for our overnight stay.

  • Altitude5080m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time4-5 hrs

Today is a relatively short trek of about 4 hours to reach Island Peak Base Camp. Starting today, we’ll stay in tented camps for the next two nights,The trail follows the glacial moraine from Chhukung, then descends slightly to the runoff from Imja Lake. Winding between gentle hills, the path opens onto a sandy plain with stunning views of Island Peak and Lhotse. From here, we continue to Island Peak Base Camp, perfectly situated in the Imja Valley, setting the stage for the upcoming climb.

  • Altitude4730 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time9-10 hrs

Today is the main adventure day – summiting Island Peak, weather permitting. We start early around 2 am for a long but rewarding climb. The trail begins with rocky scree and steep rocks, requiring careful scrambling. As we reach around 5,700 m, the high altitude slows progress, so patience and pacing are key. The route then leads to a narrow ridge and the glacier, where we put on crampons and harnesses and prepare ice axes and ropes. There may be ladders to cross and steep sections to climb, taking 1–2 hours to reach the base of the Headwall. At the Headwall, the team sets climbing ropes, and from here, the final ascent begins.

Reaching the summit of Island Peak is an incredible achievement, offering astounding panoramic views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and the surrounding Himalayas. The summit is narrow, so climbers remain roped for safety. After soaking in the moment, we abseil down the Headwall, retrace our steps across the glacier, and return to High Camp for a short rest, descend further walk to Chhukung to celebrate a job well done. This is a day of adventure, accomplishment, and memories that will last a lifetime.

  • Altitude3930m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hrs

Today, we trek back along the same route toward Pangboche (3,930 m). Passing through Dingboche and enjoying the familiar Himalayan scenery, the trek will take approximately six hours. We will stay overnight in Pangboche, resting and reflecting on the adventures so far.

  • Altitude3440m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time6-7 hrs

Following the trail from Pangboche, we retrace our steps along the Imja Tse River and through a beautiful forest to reach Tengboche. Here, we can visit the Tengboche Monastery and enjoy lunch amid the serene surroundings. The trail continues through rhododendron and juniper forests, crossing the Dudh Koshi River and following the scenic gorge into pine forests. Along the way, wildlife sightings are possible, and with some luck, we might even spot a Snow Leopard. Finally, we pass the army camp before arriving in Namche Bazaar, where we relax and share stories over dinner, reflecting on the unforgettable adventure.

  • Altitude2840m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time6 hrs

At last, we make the final 5-hour trek back to Lukla (2,840 m), where our journey began. Along the way, we soak in the surrounding scenery one last time and reflect on the incredible experiences we’ve shared. Once in Lukla, we celebrate the personal achievements and milestones of each trekker, cherishing the memories of this unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

  • Altitude1400m
  • AccommodationHotel

Lukla to Manthali (March, April, May, October, November): The flight from Lukla to Manthali takes approximately 20 minutes. From there, it’s about a 5–6 hour drive to Kathmandu, depending on highway traffic. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu via a shared tourist vehicle.

Lukla to Kathmandu (January, February, June, July, August, September, December): The direct flight from Lukla to Kathmandu takes around 35 minutes. After landing, you’ll be transferred to your hotel on a shared tourist vehicle. Please note that flight operations depend on the airline and can be affected by weather, seasonal traffic, or passenger volume.

 Helicopter Option

You have the option to book a direct helicopter flight from Lukla to Kathmandu for an extra charge of USD 550 per person. This price is quoted on a 5-people sharing basis. This is the best alternative to avoid the long drive to from Manthali airport to Kathmandu during peak season (March, April, May, October and November).

    Our team will make sure you reach the airport on time for your international flight, ensuring a smooth and stress-free departure.

    Trip Cost Details
    Included
    • All transfers ( International & Domestic airport)
    • Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla
    • Kathmandu – Manthali – Kathmandu transportation by shared tourist vehicle
    • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Local Entry Permits
    • Peak Climbing Permits
    • Experienced, first-aid trained, government licensed, English speaking trekking guide
    • Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients)
    • Climbing sherpa from Island peak base camp for the summit and back to base camp.
    • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
    • Three Star hotel accommodation in a Kathmandu with breafast | Sharing Basis
    • Accommodation in mountain teahouses in twin sharing basis
    • All foods ( breakfast, lunche and dinner) while on the trek
    • 2 night tented accommodation at Island Base Camp and High Camp
    • Packed lunch on the summit day
    • All cooked meals when camping with complementary hot water, tea and coffee
    • Staff insurance and necessary ground transport for support staff
    • Back up oxygen system during climbing period 

    Oxygen Support: We can arrange a supplemental oxygen cylinder for your safety during the climb. Oxygen must be pre-booked and costs USD 150 for rental. A porter will carry the cylinder from Namche Bazaar toward the higher elevations. If the oxygen is actually used during the climb, an additional USD 500 usage charge applies.

    Excluded
    • International flight ticket
    • Nepal Visa Fee | Nepal Visa Information
    • Personal travel insurance 
    • Tip to Guide and Porter
    • Personal climbing gears
    Useful Info

    Best Season for Island Peak Climbing

    The best seasons for Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months generally offer stable weather, clearer mountain views, and favorable conditions for trekking and climbing in the Everest region. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and fresh mountain landscapes, while autumn offers crisp skies and excellent visibility of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks. These seasons are ideal for enjoying the EBC trail, high-altitude landscapes, and the Island Peak summit adventure.

    Accommodation and Meal

    During the Everest Base Camp Trek and Island Peak Climbing, you will enjoy three meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Teahouses along the route offer a variety of local and international dishes, including dal bhat, noodles, pasta, rice, potatoes, soups, eggs, bread, pancakes, and seasonal vegetables. Tea, coffee, hot lemon, ginger tea, and other hot drinks are also widely available. At Island Peak Base Camp, our climbing team provides nutritious meals to support your energy during the summit preparation and climbing period. Kathmandu: You will stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis. If you prefer more privacy, a single room can be arranged at an additional cost. During the Trek: Along the Everest trail, you will stay in traditional teahouses and mountain lodges, offering a warm and welcoming place to rest after each day’s adventure. Rooms are generally simple and comfortable, with twin beds, blankets, and basic furnishings. Most teahouses have shared bathrooms, while hot showers and charging facilities are available at many lodges for an additional fee. Island Peak Base Camp: For the climbing section, we provide quality tents and a separate kitchen tent for our climbing and support crew. Our team takes care of the essential camp arrangements, allowing you to focus on preparation, acclimatization, and the exciting summit attempt.

    Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is strongly recommended for the Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek. As the journey reaches 6,189m, make sure your policy specifically covers high-altitude trekking and peak climbing up to this elevation.Your insurance should provide coverage for medical treatment, emergency hospitalization, helicopter evacuation, and accidents during the trek and climb. Please carefully check the terms, altitude limits, and activities covered by your insurance policy before traveling to Nepal.

    Packing List

    This packing list is designed for both the Everest Base Camp Trek and Island Peak Climbing, covering everything from comfortable trekking days to cold, high-altitude summit conditions. Pack light but be prepared for changing weather and temperatures. Our team will check your gear in Kathmandu and help you rent or arrange any missing trekking or climbing equipment. Before the summit, our climbing guide will also provide guidance on the essential technical gear.

    Island Peak Climbing – Packing List

    Trekking & Hiking Gear

    • Trekking boots – 1 pair
    • Trekking poles – 1 pair
    • Backpack – 25–35L with porter / 40–50L if carrying yourself
    • Duffel bag – 1
    • Headlamp with spare batteries – 1
    • Sunglasses – 1–2 pairs
    • Sun hat/cap – 1
    • Backpack rain cover – 1
    • Water bottles – 2
    • Water purification tablets/filter – 1
    • Microspikes – 1 pair
    • Gaiters – 1 pair
    • Dry bags/zip-lock bags – several
    • Lightweight sandals/shoes – 1 pair

    Clothing

    • Thermal/base-layer set – 2 sets
    • Quick-dry T-shirts – 3
    • Trekking pants – 2
    • Soft-shell trekking pants – 1
    • Fleece jacket – 1
    • Down jacket – 1
    • Windproof/waterproof jacket – 1
    • Waterproof pants – 1
    • Warm trekking socks – 4–5 pairs
    • Liner socks – 2–3 pairs
    • Woolen hat/beanie – 1–2
    • Neck gaiter/buff – 1
    • Liner gloves – 1 pair
    • Warm/windproof gloves – 1 pair
    • Underwear – 4–5 sets
    • Comfortable clothes for teahouses – 1 set

    Island Peak Climbing Gear

    • Mountaineering helmet – 1
    • Crampons compatible with your boots – 1 pair
    • Mountaineering ice axe – 1
    • Climbing harness – 1
    • Ascender/Jumar – 1
    • Carabiners – 2–3
    • Prusik/slings – 1–2
    • Mountaineering gloves – 1 pair
    • Goggles – 1
    • Warm insulated climbing gloves – 1 pair
    • Climbing boots suitable for Island Peak – 1 pair
    • Climbing rope and technical equipment – provided/managed by the climbing team as required

    Sleeping

    • Sleeping bag rated for high altitude – 1
    • Sleeping bag liner – 1
    • Travel pillow – 1
    • Earplugs – 1 set
    • Eye mask – 1

     Personal Hygiene & Health

    • Sunscreen SPF 50+ – 1
    • Lip balm with SPF – 1
    • Toothbrush & toothpaste – 1 set
    • Wet wipes – 1–2 packs
    • Small microfiber towel – 1
    • Hand sanitizer – 1
    • Toilet paper/tissues – as needed
    • Personal medicines – as prescribed
    • Basic first-aid/blister kit – 1
    • Electrolyte powder/tablets – as needed
    • Water purification tablets/filter – 1

    Electronics

    • Mobile phone – 1
    • Power bank – 1–2
    • Charging cables – as required
    • Universal travel adapter – 1
    • Camera – optional
    • Headlamp – 1
    • Extra batteries – as required

    Useful Extras

    • Energy bars/trail snacks – as needed
    • Insulated water flask – 1
    • Small personal medical kit – 1
    • Duct tape/gear repair kit – 1
    • Small knife/multitool – optional
    • Small amount of Nepalese cash – as needed
    • Passport/document copies – 1 set
    FAQs
    • Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is a 6,189-meter (20,305-foot) trekking peak situated in the Everest region of Nepal. It earned its name from its distinctive appearance, resembling an island rising from a sea of ice. Recognised as one of Nepal’s most popular climbing peaks, Island Peak offers a rewarding yet attainable ascent that blends high-altitude trekking with introductory mountaineering. The summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu.

    • For climbing Island Peak, essential mountaineering equipment includes a climbing harness, helmet, crampons compatible with mountaineering boots, an ice axe, carabiners and slings, prusik cords or mechanical ascenders, and a belay device, while climbing ropes are typically provided by the expedition team. In addition, trekking gear such as insulated boots, waterproof and layered clothing, trekking poles, a sturdy backpack, and a warm sleeping bag are vital for the approach trek and camping along the route, which you should maintain and manage by yourself.

    • The best time to climb Island Peak is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from late September to November. During these periods, the weather remains generally stable with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and ideal climbing conditions on the glacier and summit ridge.

    • Island Peak is regarded as a moderately technical climb that requires fundamental mountaineering skills, including the use of crampons, an ice axe, a harness, and fixed ropes. The ascent features a steep glacier climb, crevasse crossings (often assisted by ladders), and a final snow and ice slope of approximately 45–50 degrees leading to a narrow summit ridge. Although achievable for physically fit trekkers with adequate preparation, proper training, acclimatization, and professional guidance are essential for a safe and successful ascent.

    • To manage altitude sickness during the Island Peak climb, it is important to ascend gradually, limit daily altitude gain, and incorporate regular rest days for proper acclimatisation. Staying well-hydrated, eating nutritious meals, and monitoring for early symptoms such as headache or dizziness are crucial. Medications such as acetazolamide may assist with acclimatisation, but if symptoms worsen, an immediate descent to a lower altitude is essential. Climbing under the supervision of experienced guides and having supplemental oxygen available for emergencies further enhances safety and reduces the risk of altitude-related complications.

    • Climbing at a high altitude is a risky sport. It isn’t simple. At a high altitude, Island Peak is a demanding climb. Before attempting the Island Peak climb, you must be aware of the dangers of ascending to a higher altitude.

    Our global team of experts is here to assist you.

    Need Travel Advice