Island Peak climbing offers an incredible adventure through some of the world’s most stunning high passes, including Renjo La Pass (5,338m), Chola Pass (5,420m), and Kala Pattar (5,545m). Along the way, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture. This expedition is an excellent way to build your confidence and gain valuable mountaineering experience for future climbs.
Trip Info
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Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to December)
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Car/Flight/ Car/ Tourist bus
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4-5 Hours
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Hotel / Tea Houses
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Island Peak Summit at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet)
Overview
Island Peak, also called Imja Tse, is a popular trekking peak in Nepal’s Everest region. While the climb is physically demanding, it is not technically difficult, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking to challenge themselves.
Trip Highlights
- Climb Island Peak (Imja Tse) at 6,189 meters, one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal
- Cross spectacular high mountain passes: Renjo La Pass (5,338m), Chola Pass (5,420m), and Kala Pattar (5,545m
- Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan giants
- Experience authentic Sherpa culture and hospitality in Everest region villages like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche
- Stunning sunrise views from Kala Pattar overlooking Mount Everest
Itinerary
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, we’ll have a briefing session to go over the trip itinerary, discuss important details, and answer any questions you may have. This is also a great opportunity to explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu or try some local cuisine.
Early morning, take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival, meet your trekking team and begin your trek downhill to Phakding. The trail passes through charming Sherpa villages, pine forests, and alongside the Dudh Koshi River. This gentle introduction to trekking helps your body adjust to the altitude. Overnight stay in Phakding.
Today’s trek is more challenging as you ascend steadily toward Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital of the Everest region. You’ll cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and hike through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of peaks like Thamserku and Kongde Ri. Namche Bazaar offers shops, cafes, and a lively market—an ideal place to rest and acclimatize. Overnight stay in Namche.
Take this day to relax and acclimatize to the higher altitude. You can explore Namche Bazaar’s vibrant market, visit the Sherpa Museum, or take a short hike to nearby viewpoints like the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Resting today is essential to help your body adjust and prepare for the more challenging days ahead. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Today, you’ll trek through beautiful forests of rhododendron and pine, gradually ascending to the village of Tengboche. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of towering peaks like Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Tengboche is famous for its ancient monastery, one of the most important spiritual centers in the region. You can visit the monastery and experience the peaceful atmosphere before resting overnight in Tengboche.
Today’s trek takes you through more rugged terrain as you continue ascending to Pheriche, a small village nestled in a picturesque valley. The trail passes through rocky landscapes and offers breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Pheriche is home to a Himalayan Rescue Association clinic, which plays a vital role in assisting trekkers with altitude sickness. This stop provides a good opportunity to rest and acclimatize further before heading higher.
Today, you’ll leave Dingboche behind and continue trekking higher toward Lobuche. The trail passes through rocky and arid landscapes, offering spectacular views of peaks like Pumori, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Glacier. As you gain altitude, the terrain becomes more rugged and challenging, so take your time and pace yourself. Lobuche is a small settlement with basic lodges, serving as a crucial stop for acclimatization before the final push to higher elevations.
Begin your day trekking from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, the last stop before Everest Base Camp. The trail offers dramatic views of the surrounding peaks and the Khumbu Glacier. After settling in Gorak Shep, continue trekking to Everest Base Camp, where you can experience the atmosphere of this legendary mountaineering hub and see the colorful tents of climbers preparing for their ascent. Return to Gorak Shep for overnight rest, preparing for the next day’s climb to Kala Pattar.
Start early with a challenging hike to Kala Patthar, the best vantage point for breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the surrounding Himalayan giants. After soaking in the stunning sunrise and mountain vistas, descend back to Gorak Shep for a quick rest before continuing down to Lobuche for an overnight stay. This day combines high-altitude trekking with some of the most iconic views in the Everest region.
Today, you’ll undertake a challenging trek crossing the impressive Kongma La Pass, one of the highest passes in the Everest region. The ascent to the pass offers stunning views of peaks like Makalu and Island Peak. After crossing the pass, you’ll descend to the peaceful village of Chhukung, nestled in a beautiful valley surrounded by towering mountains. This route is both physically demanding and rewarding, showcasing some of the best high-altitude landscapes Nepal has to offer.
Today, you’ll trek from Chhukung to the base camp of Island Peak. The trail gradually ascends through rocky terrain and glacial moraines, offering spectacular views of Island Peak towering above. This camp is where you’ll prepare for your summit climb, getting familiar with the surroundings and finalizing your gear. Rest well and acclimatize to the higher altitude as you get ready for the exciting climb ahead. Overnight stay at Island Peak Base Camp.
Spend the day at Island Peak Base Camp focused on essential pre-climb training. You will practice key mountaineering skills such as using crampons, ice axe techniques, rope work, and glacier travel under the guidance of experienced instructors. This training prepares you physically and mentally for the summit climb, ensuring safety and confidence. Rest and hydrate well to be ready for the challenging ascent ahead. Overnight stay at Island Peak Base Camp.
Start very early with a pre-dawn climb to the summit of Island Peak. The ascent involves glacier travel, ice climbing, and scrambling over rocky terrain, rewarding you with spectacular panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other Himalayan giants from the top. After celebrating your achievement, carefully descend back to Island Peak Base Camp and continue down to Chhukung for a well-deserved rest and overnight stay.
After the exciting summit day, you’ll descend from Island Peak Base Camp down to the traditional Sherpa village of Pangboche. The trail offers beautiful views of Ama Dablam and passes through alpine forests and terraced fields. Pangboche is known for its ancient monastery and warm local hospitality, providing a perfect place to relax and reflect on your achievement. Overnight stay in Pangboche.
Today, you’ll trek downhill through scenic forests and Sherpa villages, retracing your steps toward Namche Bazaar. The trail passes charming settlements and offers stunning mountain views along the way. Namche Bazaar is a lively hub with shops, cafes, and markets—perfect for enjoying a comfortable evening after several days in the mountains. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
On this final trekking day, you’ll descend from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla. The trail winds through forests and riverside paths, giving you a last chance to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Everest region. Once in Lukla, you can relax and celebrate the completion of your trek. Overnight stay in Lukla.
Take a morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu, enjoying stunning aerial views of the Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for rest and relaxation. Use this time to explore the vibrant city, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your Island Peak adventure. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Today, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Take with you unforgettable memories of your Island Peak climb and the breathtaking Everest region. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal in the future!
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu (arrival and departure)
- Domestic flights: Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu
- Experienced English-speaking trekking and climbing guides
- Accommodation in teahouses/lodges during the trek
- Permits and entry fees (TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park permit, climbing permits)
Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory) including evacuation coverage
- Personal climbing gear (down jacket, gloves, trekking poles, boots, etc.)
- Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and staff
- Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu except as specified
FAQs
Island Peak is considered a moderate trekking peak. It’s physically demanding due to altitude and glacier climbing but technically accessible for beginners with proper training and guidance.
No prior climbing experience is required. Pre-climb training is provided at base camp to teach you essential mountaineering skills.
You need a Sagarmatha National Park permit, a TIMS card, and an Island Peak climbing permit.