Island Peak Climbing

Trip Information
  • Trip Duration 21 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Max. Altitude ६,१६० m
  • Start/End Kathmandu/kathmandu
  • Trip Type Trekking and Climbing
  • Accommodation Hotel and Lodge
  • Transport Car+Flight
  • Best Season March-May and Sep to Nov

Island Peak Climbing: 21 Days Itinerary, Map, and Best Price

Island peak climbing is a 21 days adventurous trip in Nepal that explores the historical sites in Kathmandu and takes you to the Khumbu region, the eastern Himalayas. The island peak is a trekking peak, which means a perfect 6,000 meters to climb. Both beginners and experienced climbers can participate in our Island peak climbing 2023 departure. In the Nepali tongue, the Island peak is known as Imja Tse. 

If you have been trekking in the Himalayas and covered some major routes and now looking to upgrade your level, then Island peak climbing in Nepal is one of the best options. The technical difficulty on Island Peak is a few to none, so you can join this climbing expedition without previous mountaineering experience. Standing at 6,189 meters, Island Peak is a stunning mountain to climb as your first peak climbing in Nepal

Island peak climbing with a trek to Kala Patthar

Our Island peak climbing itinerary combines a trek to Kala Patthar that will let you acclimatize before pushing towards the Island peak base camp. If you want, you can extend the itinerary to the Everest base camp too. The trekking part is very immersive and exciting as you will be spending nights in beautiful Sherpa villages, walking through lush rhododendron forests, visiting ancient monasteries, and witnessing surreal landscapes. 

The trek begins from Lukla village, and you will descend to Phakding, following the Dudh Koshi river. From here, the trail ascends to Namche Bazaar, crossing numerous suspension bridges on the Dudh Koshi river and passing by densely forested paths. We have an acclimatization break in Namche Bazaar and go on a hike to Hotel Everest View. The trail then goes to Tengboche village via Phunki Tenga, and we take a different route to Pheriche. 

Following a steep track, you will trek along the Khumbu glacier moraine to Lobuche village. Next day, hike to Kala Patthar and back to Lobuche. We descend to Dingboche village and then continue to Chhukung valley. From Chhukung village, we head to Island Peak base camp, and our climbing journey begins. 

Climbing training at the base camp

Our supporting crew will prepare the base camp in advance to welcome you. Upon reaching the Island peak base camp, get freshen up and have a warm meal. We will rest, and later in the day, our guide will give you basic pre-climbing training. This training will teach you how to navigate the mountain and follow the instructions of the guides. You learn to use climbing gear and discuss all the possibilities above base camp. 

Likewise, we will check the climbing boots with crampons and practice walking. We have to be well-rested to push to Island peak high camp, and above that, therefore we will end the day early. 


Summit day at Island peak

On the summit day, you will begin climbing toward the summit at dawn. Above the high camp, ascend following a rock ridge to a glacier. The track then steeply ascends to a snow headwall. The guide will fix the ropes. You will climb a 60 - 70 degree face about 150 meters to the summit ridge. From the summit, the views of the mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Kanchenjunga, and Cho Oyu are phenomenal. 

What is so special about climbing Island Peak?

Climbing Island Peak offers a unique and challenging experience for climbers, as it combines elements of high-altitude trekking and climbing. 

Some of the reasons that make Island Peak special include:

  1. Location: Island Peak is located in the heart of the Himalayas in Nepal, offering climbers stunning views of some of the world's highest mountains, such as Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

  2. Technical Difficulty: While Island Peak is considered less technical than some of the other peaks in the Himalayas, it still requires a certain level of climbing experience and fitness. The ascent to the summit involves steep and challenging terrain, such as rock, ice, and snow. A perfect climbing introduction for rookie climbers. 

  3. Altitude: At 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) above sea level, Island Peak offers climbers the opportunity to experience the thin air and reduced oxygen levels of high-altitude climbing.

  4. Acclimatization: Climbing Island Peak is a great way to acclimatize or test the water before attempting to climb higher peaks in the Himalayas, such as Mount Everest.

  5. Cultural Experience: The climb to Island Peak also offers the opportunity to experience the culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa people, who have lived in the region for centuries and have a deep knowledge of the mountains.

  6. Scenery: Island peak is located in the Sagarmatha National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers trekkers and climbers a chance to experience the diverse flora and fauna, as well as the panoramic views of the highest mountain ranges in the world.

Optional climbing packages

You can join our Island peak climbing in Nepal or check out these other famous trekking peaks for more options- Mera peak climbing, Tharpu Chuli peak climbing, Pisang peak climbing, and Chulu west peak climbing

Major Highlights

  • A 21 days adventurous trip in Nepal that explores the historical sites in Kathmandu and takes you to the Khumbu region
  • Both beginners and experienced climbers can participate in our Island peak climbing 
  • The technical difficulty on Island Peak is a few to none, so you can join this climbing expedition without previous mountaineering experience
  • Combines a trek to Kala Patthar that will let you acclimatize
  • Spend nights in beautiful Sherpa villages, walk through lush rhododendron forests, visit ancient monasteries, and witness surreal landscapes during the trek
  • Pre-climbing training to teach you how to navigate the mountain and use climbing gear properly
  • Scale 6,000 meters above mountain in the Himalayas, Island Peak
Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

Welcome to Nepal. The airport representative of Welcome Nepal Treks will pick you up from the international airport and escort you to the hotel. Today, we meet you in the late evening over a welcome dinner and most likely introduce you to your mountain guide.

  • Max. Altitude: 1350m
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu

The morning is packed with historical monuments visits with a tour guide. You will explore places like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Later in the day, we spend time preparing for climbing. Pack the duffel bags and double-check all the gear. The mountain guide will do the briefing about the journey.

Meals: Breakfast only

  • Day tour time:6 Hour
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu

We will take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, where we will land at Tenzing Hillary Airport. The flight will take about 40 minutes and offer scenic views. From there, we will start our trek, passing through Chaurikharka Village and descending to Ghat village to reach Phakding. 

The trail goes along the Dudh Koshi river, crossing it several times. Today's trek will be short and enjoyable, and you will have the chance to acclimatize. In your free time, you can visit the local monasteries, such as the Rimishung Monastery, and prepare for the longer trek tomorrow.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 2,860 m
  • Day tour time:35 minutes flight & 3-4 hours trek
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

As we continue our trek along the northern bank of the Dudh Koshi river, we will be surrounded by beautiful mountain views. We will cross several suspension bridges on the way, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, and follow the trail through the Sagarmatha National Park above Monjo village.

Inside the national park, we will hike through dense forests of rhododendron & magnolia and follow a path that offers our first views of Mount Everest. As we continue trekking, we will reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest. The final ascend is a bit steep, so be careful. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 3,440 m
  • Day tour time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

Today, we will focus on acclimatizing. You are free to explore Namche Bazaar, which has a variety of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and gear shops. You can also hike to the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center and visit Khumjung. On our way to Khumjung, we will stop at the Hillary School and old monasteries.

We will also take you to the Syangboche airstrip and continue the hike to the Everest View Hotel. We get to see the view of Thamserku, Kangtega, Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse during the hike. Before it gets dark, we will head back to Namche Bazaar, stopping at Everest Photo Gallery and Sherpa Culture Museum on the way. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

This morning, we will have breakfast and then begin our trek to Tengboche. On the way to Tengboche, we will have the opportunity to see these famous mountains as well as wildlife like musk deer, pheasant, and Himalayan tahr. The trail may be challenging at times, but the views of the Himalayas will be worth it. 

We will trek down to cross the Dudh Koshi River and pass through dense alpine forests to reach Phunki Tenga. After more trekking, we will finally reach Tengboche, home to the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu Region, the Tengboche Monastery. This monastery was built in 1923.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 3,860 m
  • Day tour time:5 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

Leaving Tengboche village, we walk on a downhill trail across rhododendron and oak forests. The trail goes through Pangboche village and heads to Pheriche. The mountain landscapes along the way are fantastic. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 4200m
  • Day tour time:6 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

The day begins early. We walk straight to Dughla, following a rough path. The trail gets steep as we trek along the Khumbu Glacier moraine. Crossing the glacier section, we further walk to Lobuche village. The views of mountains like Nuptse, Pumori, Khumbutse, and Cholatse are stunning on the way. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 4,910 m
  • Day tour time:5 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

We have our breakfast early in the morning and begin trekking toward Gorak Shep. From Gorak Shep, we ascend on a rocky, steep trail to Kala Patthar. It is a famous viewpoint that offers the breathtaking perspective of Everest. After reaching Kala Patthar, we take time to soak in the views and later retrace the trail back to Lobuche village to spend the night. This hike will help us acclimatize for the climbing part. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 5,644 m
  • Day tour time:8 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

We begin the day early and follow an uphill route to Dughla. The trail passes by Dusa and steeply ascends to Dingboche village. On the way, we will walk past praying flags and stones, relishing the striking panorama of Pumori, Khumbutse, Lingtren, and many other snow-capped mountains. The trail also goes past the memorial chortens of lost climbers.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 4,300 m
  • Day tour time:7-8 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

Leaving Dingboche village, we’ll walk to Chhukung village. The trail is uneven and steep. The trekking route has phenomenal views of mountains like Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, etc. Upon reaching Chhukung village, we spend the remaining day relaxing and interacting with the locals.  

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 4,730 m
  • Day tour time:6 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

From today onwards, our climbing period starts. We ascend to Island Peak base camp first. Following the southward uphill route, we walk along the moraine, going from Lhotse glacier to the east. Soon, we reach the side of the rock blocks, and after around 40 minutes of ascending, we reach the base camp of Island peak. 

Our crew will set up the tents and prepare meals. We take our time to regain our energy. The team leader will teach the basics of climbing and the proper way to use climbing gear later in the day. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

 

  • Max. Altitude: 5000m
  • Day tour time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the camp

We wake up early in the morning and have a warm breakfast prepared by the crew. Leaving the base camp, we head towards the high camp at 5,300 meters. It is another short climbing day, so we will have plenty of time to recover and prepare for the push. Following the footsteps of your guide, climb to high camp using climbing gear. The crew will set up the tents and prepare the meals.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 5300m. Approx.
  • Day tour time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the camp

Today is a big day. We will push towards the summit of Island peak on this day if the weather allows. We'll leave the high camp around 2 AM and climb towards the summit. The strong wind and cold will make the climbing very strenuous. The route ascends to the foot of a glacier, and we use ropes from here onwards to climb the glacier safely. 

Further, we keep climbing until we reach the summit of Island peak, from where we can see unbelievable views of the surrounding mountains. After spending some time at the summit, we'll retrace the path back to the base camp. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

 

  • Max. Altitude: 6160m
  • Day tour time:10+ hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the camp

Before, we'll leave the base camp, collect all our waste and clean it. Following the same trail back, descend to Tengboche village. The trail goes through villages like Orsho and Shomare. We will then walk by Pangboche village and cross a river before ascending to Tengboche village via the rhododendron forest. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 3,860 m
  • Day tour time:6 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

The trail further descends to Namche Bazaar. We will be retracing the path to Namche Bazaar. The mountain scenery is stunning on the way. From Tengboche village, it is a long descent to Namche Bazaar. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 3,440 m
  • Day tour time:6 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

Descend steeply for a couple of hours and walk through lush forests of magnolia and rhododendron. We will cross many suspension bridges on the way and walk through small settlements before reaching Phakding village for the night stay. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 2,610 m
  • Day tour time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

The day begins with a delicious breakfast. After breakfast, we'll begin walking on an uphill route along the Dudh Koshi river. On the way, we will cross numerous hanging bridges and walk through small villages to reach Lukla. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

  • Max. Altitude: 2,860 m
  • Day tour time:3-4 hours
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the lodge

An early morning short flight will take us back to Kathmandu. We drop you at the hotel upon landing in Kathmandu. You have the entire day free. We highly recommend getting a massage and rest. Do window shopping in Thamel and visit the local market. One of the great places in Thamel is the Garden of Dreams, where you can chill.

Meals: Breakfast only

 

  • Day tour time:35 minutes
  • Accommodation:Overnight in the 3 star hotel

You have one full day in Kathmandu before the trek ends. Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square, the two other royal residences in Kathmandu valley. If you want, we can also arrange a tour for you. In the late evening, meet us for a celebration and farewell dinner. 

Meals: Breakfast & farewell dinner

 

  • Accommodation:Overnight in the 3 star hotel

Your adventure comes to an end in Nepal. Today, you will fly to your next destination, so pack your stuff on time. Our team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport.

Meals: Breakfast

    What's Included
    • 4 nights 3 star hotel in Kathmandu with bed & breakfast
    • Permit fee of Island Peak
    • Equipment: Trekking tents, Dining tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Table and chairs, Mattresses during the trekking & Peak climbing period
    • Food: Food for trekking & Peak climbing( Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
    • Staff: 1 Base Camp Guide, 1 Cook, 1 Kitchen, 1 climbing guide & necessary porters
    • Local transportation Airport – Hotel – Airport
    • Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu flight
    • Park fees of Everest region
    • climbing food
    • Climbing tent
    • Main rope for climbing
    • climbing guide
    • Trekking crews of insurance
    • Trekking allowance, food allowance for trekking crew
    • Fare well dinner
    • Our service charge
    What's not Included
    • PERSONAL equipment for climbing & Trekking
    • Personal Insurance for travel to Nepal
    • Climbing food
    • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
    • Emergency Rescue evacuation incase needed
    • Trekking Sleeping bag & Jacket
    • Personal expenses
    • Tipping (Tips)
    • Bar bills & Beverage
    • Departures taxes for International flight
    Useful Information

    Island peak climbing difficulty

    The climb to the summit of Island Peak is considered a challenging one and requires a significant level of physical fitness, experience, and good acclimatization. The climb involves steep and challenging terrain, such as rock, ice, and snow, and climbers will use crampons and ice axes. The ascent to the summit also requires climbing at a high altitude where the air is thin, and the oxygen level is low.

    It's considered less technical than some of the other peaks in the Himalayas but still requires some basic climbing skills and knowledge of using mountaineering equipment. The summit day usually starts early in the morning and takes several hours. The climb is usually done at night to avoid the avalanches & rock falls that may happen during the day and to also reach the summit by sunrise.

    Island Peak Climbing season

    Island Peak Climbing in spring

    Climbing Island Peak in spring (March-May) can be a great option as the weather is generally stable, and the snow is consolidated, making the ascent easier. The days are also longer, providing more daylight for the climb, and the temperatures are milder, making it more comfortable for climbers.

    During this season, the Himalayas are also less crowded, giving climbers a sense of solitude and tranquility while climbing. The blooming flowers, lush vegetation, and clear skies also offer a beautiful and scenic backdrop for the climb.

    However, it's important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and change quickly, so it's best to be prepared for different scenarios. Also, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with climbing at high altitudes, such as altitude sickness, hypothermia, and other health hazards.

    Island Peak Climbing in autumn

    Climbing Island Peak in autumn (September-November) can also be a good option as the weather is usually stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making the ascent easier. The days are also shorter, and the snow is not as consolidated as in spring, but it's still possible to climb it.

    Autumn is also considered the peak season for climbing and trekking in Nepal, and many climbers choose to climb Island Peak during this time of the year. This means the mountain and the route may be more crowded, and the prices for services may be higher.

    One of the advantages of climbing Island Peak in autumn is the chance to see the beautiful fall colors in the surrounding mountains and vegetation, which is a unique experience.

    Accommodation and meals during Island Peak Climbing

    For the majority of the trek, accommodation is typically in tea houses or lodges, which are simple but comfortable. Accommodation is usually on a twin-sharing basis with shared bathrooms and no heating. Some teahouses may offer single rooms, but it's not always guaranteed.

    When climbing, accommodation is typically in tents, which are provided by us. We use the 4-season tents that are designed to withstand high winds and cold temperatures. Meals will be prepared by the staff and typically consist of simple but nutritious food such as soups, pasta, rice, and vegetables.

    While trekking, all the meals will be given as per the menu of the teahouse or lodge you are staying in. You can expect dishes like dal bhat, porridge, momo, noodles, soup, thukpa, etc. There is also the option of ordering western food, but it may be more expensive and less available in remote areas.

    Note: When climbing at high altitudes, the accommodation may not be as comfortable as what is available at lower altitudes. 

    Do I need travel insurance for Island peak climbing?

    Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance when climbing Island Peak. Travel insurance will provide coverage for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, accidents, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen gear.

    Climbing Island Peak is a challenging and physically demanding endeavor, and things can change quickly in the mountains, so it's important to be prepared for different scenarios. Travel insurance can provide peace of mind by covering the costs of any unexpected events that may occur during the climb, such as evacuation or medical treatment.

    It's important to choose travel insurance that specifically covers high-altitude climbing and emergency evacuation. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the policy.

    Charging, internet, and hot shower during Island peak climbing

    During the climb of Island Peak, charging, internet, and hot shower facilities will vary depending on the lodge and services you choose to include in the package. Our general Island peak climbing cost does not cover charging, internet, or hot shower expenses. So, you have to carry a little additional money to use these services. 

    1. Charging: In the teahouses and lodges on the trek to the base camp, you will find paid charging facilities, but it's best to come prepared with a power bank as electricity can be unreliable and is not always available. 

    2. Internet: Internet connectivity is limited in the Khumbu region. It's not always available or reliable, especially at high altitudes. In the teahouses and lodges on the trek to the base camp, you may find internet, but it is usually slow and expensive.

    3. Hot shower: Hot shower facilities are limited and are not always available, especially at high altitudes. They may be available in some teahouses and lodges at an additional fee.

    FAQs
    • Q1. Is Island Peak easy to climb?

      No, Island peak is not easy to climb, but if we consider the technical difficulty, then it is one of the best trekking peaks for beginner climbers in Nepal. In mountaineering vocabulary, Island peak climbing difficulty is marked PD+, which means this mountain is very physically demanding. You will walk on snow ridges and glaciers. The summit route crosses a steep snow headwall and involves a 60 - 70 degree incline ascend. 

       

    • From the Island peak base camp, it takes 5 to 6 hours to reach the summit, and then you descend to base camp on the same day. So overall summit day is quite long. Apart from that, our Island peak climbing itinerary involves a trek to Kala Patthar, so you'll spend almost ten days trekking to the Island peak base camp. 

       

    • No, you cannot climb Island peak or any other peak in Nepal without a guide. It is illegal and not safe. 

       

    • The cost of climbing Island Peak can vary depending on the route and guide company you choose, as well as the length of the trip. Typically, prices can range from around $2,000 to $5,000 or more for a guided climb. The cost often includes permits, transportation, gear, food and lodging, and the services of a guide. However, it is best to check with specific companies for their current prices and the services they offer.

       

    • Island Peak stands at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) above sea level. At that altitude, the air is thin, and the oxygen level is low, so many climbers choose to use supplemental oxygen while climbing. However, it is not a requirement, and some climbers have successfully climbed without using supplementary oxygen. The use of supplementary oxygen is a personal choice and depends on a climber's physical condition, level of acclimatization, and experience.

       

    • It is possible for beginners to climb Island Peak, but it is highly recommended that they have previous experience with high-altitude trekking and good physical condition. The ascent to Island Peak includes steep and challenging terrain, such as rock, ice & snow, and climbers should be comfortable with the use of crampons, ice axe, and other climbing equipment.

       

    • Climbing Island Peak in Nepal typically involves a combination of trekking and mountaineering.

      • Trek to Base Camp: The first step in climbing Island Peak is to trek to the base camp, which is located at an altitude of around 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). The trek usually takes several days and involves hiking through remote mountain villages and beautiful landscapes.
      • Summit Day: On summit day, climbers will typically wake up early and start the climb to the summit. The climb is usually done at night to avoid the avalanches and rock falls that happen during the day and also to reach the summit by sunrise.
    • Yes, it is possible to see Mount Everest from the summit of Island Peak. The summit of Island Peak offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, climbers can see Mount Everest and other nearby peaks.

       

    • If you are forced to leave the expedition due to an illness or injury, we may be able to provide medical assistance and arrange for evacuation (travel insurance needed). If you leave due to personal reasons, you may need to cover the costs of your departure. In any case, you should inform us or the leader as soon as possible and follow their instructions.

      You may not be able to get a full refund if you leave the expedition early, especially if we have already made arrangements for your food, lodging, and gear. In addition, we may have to make additional arrangements or incur additional costs to arrange for your departure.