Island Peak Climbing

Detail Itinerary

• Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1338m) and transfer to hotel

  Arrive at the Capital city of Nepal and you will be greeted by our representative staff and then transfer to your hotel where you will rest tired self. We shall meet and a brief discussion is done regarding the trip along with your introduction to our crew members. You shall enjoy the cuisines and hospitality at the hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu.

• Day 02: Flight to Lukla and trekking to Phakding (2640m)

  Pull up your socks and be ready as the real adventure begins. We shall board an early morning flight to Lukla. An exciting and enthralling flight above the breathtaking green and white peaks shall take us to the small hilly Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, the starting point of our climbing expedition. After meeting with the other crew members of our trip and making the other arrangements, we shall start our adventure from Lukla followed by descending to the village of Narshing and an uphill march to Phakding along the Dudh Koshi River. Today’s short trek is intended to assist in acclimatization. However, other additional activities may be taken into interest. Overnight in Phakding.

• Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m)

  Today shall be an interesting day. We wander along the Dudh Koshi and through the alluring pine forests, and monasteries, and cross a couple of suspension bridges. After having our trekking permits checked at the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo we pass through the village of Jorsale to reach the Hillary Bridge, the highest among the bridges we shall cross today. We shall get a glimpse of magnificent Mt. Thamserku (6608m) from Benkar village and break at Chautara to adore the majestic peaks along the route. An uphill walk from the Hillary Bridge shall lead us to the colorful Namche Bazaar to end one part of our nature-rich journey and begin the next section. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

• Day 04: Namche acclimatization day (3440m)

  As health experts recommend, today we shall have the acclimatization day in Namche due to its altitude suitable for the purpose. A few hundred vertical treks are recommended rather than being idle in your lodge. More preferred is at least some wandering around the quaint villages and getting familiarized with the rich heritage of Sherpa culture and a side trip to the Everest View Hotel for an up-close view of Everest. Surrounded by the snowy peaks, Namche is home to a local museum that displays the region’s history and native flora and fauna. For trekkers preferring a bit longer hike, the nearby pretty village of Khumjung is another option. It hosts the school built by Sir Edmund Hillary, the famed Khunde hospital, and Khumjung Monastery (famous for housing the head of the Yeti!) which makes it a place worth visiting. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

• Day 05: Namche to Tengboche (3867m.), 5/6 hours walk

  After one day’s acclimatization in Namche, this day we continue our trek after breakfast. For some time we walk on the plain path to Kenjoma through the forest enjoying the panoramic views of the mountains like Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Thamserku, and Lhotse. From Kenjoma, we trek down to the small settlement of Punki Thunga where we take lunch. Then we climb to Tengboche, a Sherpa village with the world's highest monastery. There we visit the monastery and interact with the Buddhist monks and nuns.

• Day 06: Tengboche to Dingboche (4260m.), 5/6 hours walk

  Today, we descend downhill to Douche with the scene of uncountable rhododendrons. We cross the suspension bridge that lies over the Imja Khola. We walk through the valley to Pangboche. On the way, we see Mani stone walls. We finally climb up to Dingboche where we stay overnight. Still, you can see the close-up view of Ama Dablam.

• Day 07: Dingboche to Lobuche (4930m), 4/5 hours walk

  From Dingboche, we walk on a gradually ascending path with a view of Mt. Tawache, Nuptse, Ama Dablam as well as Pokalde. We can see Pheriche village from Dingboche. Then we climb down to Pheriche village and head to Dughla. We cross the bridge on the Khumbu glacier and then we continue walking up a steep hill and finally reach Lobuche.

• Day 08: Lobuche to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorakshep, 5/6 hours walk

  On this day we achieve our goal of putting our foot on the Everest base camp. From Lobuche, we walk up a rocky moraine path with a view of the Khumbu glacier. Then we descend to Gorakshep where we take lunch. Then we head to Everest base camp. At Everest base camp we stay for some time and observe the view of the surrounding mountains. Then we return to Gorakshep where we stay overnight.

• Day 09: Gorakshep to Kalapatthar (5550m) and back to Lobuche (4930m)

  A big day! Today we march to the lap of the mightiest Mount Everest and get the feel of being on the top of the world. Past the route, we reach our destination of the Kalapatthar. Before us stand the five of the world’s highest mountains in a seemingly small area. After witnessing the icefall in the vicinity and fulfilling our utmost desire to be near the mighty mountain, we get back to the ridges of Lobuche and call it a day. Overnight in Lobuche.

• Day 10: Lobuche to Chhukung (4730m) via Kongma La Pass, 5360m

  From Lobuche, head towards Chhukung. Admiring the beautiful scenery arrives at Chhukung village. The crew member collects all the essential equipment and gear for peak climbing. After lunch, learn in detail about the equipment and gear from the experts. Overnight in Chhukung.

• Day 11: Chhukung to Island peak Base Camp (4970m)

  We face a fairly steep trail as we move ahead to the base camp of Island Peak. Initially, we moved on the Island Peak trail on the southern side of the Lhotse glacier. After some decent trail, we turn on to the crisscross climbing route of the Island Peak ahead of the Lake of Imja Tsho. There comes the base camp of the Island Peak. Overnight at Island Peak Base Camp.

• Day 12: Island Peak Base Camp to High Camp (5500m)

  Today also serves as the pre-training day before we conquer the summit of our much-awaited Island Peak. We aim to reach the High Camp before we attempt the summit. We practice the peak climbing techniques with the use of the proper climbing gears and other equipment under the guidance of the experts. This shall boost the confidence of the climbers and helps the climbers enjoy the summit experience. Depending on the season and crevasses the use of a rope is done. Overnight in the High Camp.

• Day 13: High Camp to Island peak summit (6183m) and back to Base Camp

  This is D-day for the climbers and the main goal of this expedition arrives before us. An early ascend to the summit is preferred due to the difficult conditions the strong afternoon winds pose before the climbers making it difficult to complete the summit properly. We shall reach the right side of the steep rock gully, and then follow a ridgeline and a headwall just below the summit. This difficult climb will be eased by short rock steps and the use of rope shall allow an easier climb whose length depends on the crevasse. After enjoying the summit and capturing the memories, we descend back to the Base camp with the feeling of triumph.

   

• Day 14: Island Peak Base Camp to Tengboche, 3867m

  Imja Tse got its name of Island Peak from Eric Shipton’s expedition team as the peak appeared to them as an island in a sea of ice as viewed from Dingboche. The trek onward down the Island Peak Base Camp becomes relatively easier as compared to ascending towards the summit. We follow the same route to the south of the Khumbu glacier on the Island Peak trek route till we reach a bit ahead of the Bibre village. From here on we walk along the Imja River and take a break for the day at the Dingboche. The all snowy and rocky landscapes help release some strains from our minds and make us relaxed.

• Day 15: Tengboche to Namche (3440m)

  This section of the trail indicates the later part of our expedition. The colorful rhododendron and juniper trees provide liveliness to the trail while the mighty Dudh Koshi warns us against polluting the trail. The pine forests add beauty to the path and we look forward to the site of wildlife including Mountain goats, pheasants, snow leopards, and others. Past the Buddhist shrines, we reach the unofficial Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar to call it a day. Overnight in Namche.

• Day 16: Namche to Lukla (2640m)

  We cautiously descend with our shaky legs over some suspension bridges in places of Larja, Tawa, and Benkar among others slowly and steadily. We then exit the natural heaven of Sagarmatha National Park and Phakding village. The trail becomes more natural and easy as we continually struggle through the rough terrain. Prayer wheels and flags, Mani walls, and walled stones make our trail back to the trekking starting place creating the feeling of completing the strenuous yet richly rewarding expedition. Overnight in Lukla.

• Day 17: Return flight to Kathmandu

  The scenic return flight to Kathmandu is awesome. Transfer to the hotel and later do some souvenir shopping. Get ready with your bags packed for returning to the respective destinations. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner. Share the journey experience and happy to receive your feedback as well. Back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

• Island Peak Climbing Information

  Accommodation

  The simple but comfortable Teahouses or lodges with basic facilities are means of accommodation. With an additional payment, extra facilities like hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging of electronic devices, and laundries are available. During the peak seasons and at high altitudes sharing must be done. The attached bathrooms are not available and are mostly outside the teahouse or lodge. While in the Island Peak base camp and High camp, tent camping is the accommodation.

  Meals

  During the entire peak climbing, 3 meals (breakfast, lunch. Dinner) a day are provided. In Kathmandu, only breakfast is provided. Basic but healthy meals are provided from the teahouses or lodges. While in the tent camp, an arrangement is done. Healthy foods are prepared by the cook. Nepali Dal Bhat is a staple dish served with fresh green vegetable & curry. Besides, noodles, soup, bread, roti, Sherpa stew, and hot drinks are also available. An option of continental cuisine is in Namche at your personal expense.

  Drinking Water

  Plenty of drinking water option is available in the Himalayas. And the water is fresh and pure too. One can directly fill up the natural freshwater stream from the Himalayas. Or fill up the boiled water in a water bottle in the teahouses paying an additional charge. Don’t forget to carry water purifying solutions for proper water treatment and to be safe. Keeping yourself hydrated is the best mantra.

  Internet connectivity & Mobile Network

  Everest Link’s Wi-Fi card provides internet all over the Everest region. Thus, internet connectivity is easily available and stable. Just purchase these cards in the region and use them. Alternatively, purchase a Sim card and use mobile data for the internet connection. But the problem with mobile data is that it may not work at high altitudes due to the instability of the mobile network. In the lower regions, the mobile network is stable, and in the higher altitudes, the mobile network is mostly unstable. Internet connectivity is also unstable as the altitude rises.

  Island Peak Starting Point

  Lukla is the starting point for any trekking or climbing in the Everest region. From Lukla, pass through the villages of Phakding, Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche to arrive at Chhukung. Chhukung is the gateway to reach Island Peak Base Camp and High Camp. The trekkers prepare for the Island Peak Climbing from the base camp.

  Lukla-Phakding-Namche-Tengboche-Dingboche-Lobuche-Chhukung-IslandPeak Base Camp-High Camp

  Required Permits

  Permits are compulsory in the mountains of Nepal. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Entrance Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Permit (SNP), Island Peak Climbing, and Garbage Deposit Fee are our required permits.

  1. Khumbu permit costs NPR 2000 (Foreigners),  NPR 1000 (SAARC)
  2. SNP permit costs NPR 3000 (Foreigners), NPR 1500 (SAARC)
  3. Island Peak permit cost as per different seasons:
     • Spring (March-May): US$ 250 per person
     • Autumn (September-November): US$ 125 per person
     • Summer (June-August) & Winter (December-February): US$ 70/person
  4. Garbage Deposit Fee costs US$ 500

     The following documents are required for Island Peak Permit:

     • Passport-sized photos
     • Photocopy of Passport
     • Nepali currency (NPR)
     • Application forms
     • Travel Insurance  

  Garbage deposit fees

  Nepal Mountaineering Association charges a USD 500 Garbage Deposit Fee which is refundable as per their rules and regulations. This is compulsory and an essential permit to climb Island Peak. A great step towards preserving the environment. So, be responsible and follow the guidelines properly.

  Travel Insurance

  Travel Insurance is required for climbing Island Peak. It is mandatory and plays a key role in case of unexpected events and emergencies. Hence, get travel insurance from a reputed agency. It must cover all emergency evacuation, medical extremities, luggage loss/theft, flight cancellations, altitude above 4000m, etc.

  Safety and our guides

  We assure you 100% when it comes to safety. The safety of our clients is our major concern. Our guides are certified and well-trained with years of expertise in this field. They are technically competent and have excelled in safety performance. They always carry essential safety equipment, gear, and first-aid kits. For the safety of our trekkers/climbers, the itinerary is properly scheduled and acclimatization rest days are properly set up to adjust to the high altitude. Before climbing the peak, training on the proper use of equipment and gear is provided. If any queries, feel free to share them with our guides. We are always there for your services.

  Best time for Island Peak Climb

  Peak climbing in the Himalayas is tough. Hence, it is best to climb in the peak seasons for safety and enjoy the stunning views. The best time to climb Island Peak is the spring and autumn seasons. Winter season is risky and only a few adventurous dare to climb. The summer season is the least preferable compared to peak seasons. Overall, the spring season is best followed by the autumn season. The permit cost as per season are listed below:

  • Spring (March-May): US$ 250 per person
  • Autumn (September-November): US$ 125 per person
  • Summer (June-August) & Winter (December-February): US$ 70 per person

   

  Island Peak Climbing Difficulty

  Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) has classified Island Peak as a Group B climbing peak. Generally, the thought of climbing peaks is tough. In reality, peak climbing is really tough. But, peak climbing is adventurous despite challenging. And it is possible with the proper assistance and guidance of experts in mountaineering. In the case of Island Peak climbing, climbers should experience mountaineering at high altitudes and train in climbing, using gears and equipment before climbing the actual peak. Besides this, climbers must be in good health, and physically, & mentally fit as it is physically demanding. So, we commend you to participate in exercises, and physical training months before starting the actual climbing. Also, take necessary health tests before peak climbing. Island Peak Climbing is achievable with the proper guidance and assistance of our team. You can completely rely on us.

• Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization

  Altitude sickness is normal in the Himalayas above the altitude of 3000m. During the Island Peak climbing, the trek starts from Lukla (2866m) and the altitude rises to the Island Peak summit (6183m). A proper acclimatization rest day is scheduled in Namche to adjust to the altitude and proper rest for the body to prevent altitude sickness.

  Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

  Primary: Headache, nausea, gasping, appetite & sleep loss, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting

  Extreme: primary symptoms and hallucinations & unconsciousness

  Preventive Guidelines

  • Immediately inform the guide
  • Warm-up, and body stretch before the trekking journey
  • Drink water and Hydrate yourself at regular intervals
  • Frequent urination throughout the journey
  • Ascend slowly and gradually
  • Take plenty of rest and sleep
  • Avoid salty foods, alcohol, and smoking
  • Descend immediately when it’s uneasy/Difficult
  • Take medicine consulting a guide