Island Peak Climbing
Itinerary
Detailed Outline of Your Trip
Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2800m / 9184ft) and then trek to Phakding (2652m / 8700ft)
Today, you will start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, our guide will pick you up and transport you to the domestic airport in a private vehicle. From there, you will take a 35-minute scenic flight to the Lukla Airport, the highest airport in Nepal. The lush surrounding greenery will captivate you upon arrival. You will meet the rest of our crew at Lukla and then proceed to register at the Lukla Tourism Checkpoint before beginning your trek.
From Lukla, you will head towards Phakding. As the trek commences, you will pass through the Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Memorial Gate. The trail then descends to Thalsaroa and Cheplung, offering a spectacular view of the rushing Dudh Koshi River. Beyond Cheplung, the trail crosses a suspension bridge over Thado Khola, providing a glimpse of Mt. Khumbila before reaching Ghat. Continuing on to Phakding, the inclined walk presents breathtaking vistas. Along the way, you will encounter the enchanting display of prayer wheels, mantra-inscribed Mani stones, and gompas. Phakding serves as a stopover during the trek to the Everest region, where you will stay overnight.
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m / 11283ft)
Leaving Phakding, we embark on an enchanting journey to Namche. It will be a long and tiring trek today. Our path follows the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, leading us through charming Sherpa villages like Rimijung, Zamfute, Benkar, and Chhamuwa. This trek offers a serene and beautiful experience in the Himalayan region. Upon reaching Chhamuwa, we complete the necessary registration process. From there, we ascend through a magnificent forest of rhododendrons, fir, and Mongolia trees. Next, we submit our entrance card and National Park entry card at Monjo, which marks the border of Sagarmatha National Park.
Continuing from Monjo, we traverse along the riverbed to the confluence of the Bhote and Dudh Koshi Rivers. Then, we embark on a steady climb, crossing the iconic Tenzing-Hillary suspension bridge. With a glimpse of Mount Everest and the Nuptse-Lhotse range, we ascend through a pine forest that takes us to the vibrant Namche Bazaar. Our journey ends with an overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Acclimatization Day
This day marks the first acclimatization stage of our Island Peak Climbing expedition. Before ascending to higher altitudes, we have to allow our bodies to adapt to the conditions. Thus, we are acclimatizing in the picturesque and renowned Namche Bazaar, considered the Gateway to Everest and the largest town along the Everest trail.
Today, we will begin by strolling through Namche’s charming villages. Then, we will head to the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest-situated hotels in the world. From here, we will enjoy the panoramic views of Mt. Khumbila, Mt. Thamserku, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, as well as the majestic Mt. Everest. Additionally, we can hike to the Syangboche airstrip, where we can admire the breathtaking scenery of Namche village from the runway. After exploring these beautiful locations, we will return to Namche to rest. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
After a tasty breakfast in Namche, we set out for Tengboche today. We trek along the rushing glacial waters of the Dudh Koshi River. While hiking, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Our trail then ascends to Sanasa. From there, the path to the right descends to cross the Dudh Koshi on a suspension bridge near Phunki Tenga, the lowest point north of Namche Bazaar.
We then enter the Imja Khola Valley. The trail from here climbs steeply through the rhododendron forest, leading us to the hilltop village of Tengboche where we’ll spend the night.
Tengboche to Dingboche (4,400 m/14,435 ft)imj
With the beautiful morning, we walk to the monastery in Tengboche. The monastery is in a perfect location to enjoy the alluring Himalayan landscape. After visiting the monastery, we begin our trek to Dingboche. We walk through a lush forest of birch, conifers, and rhododendrons first. It will be an easy path to walk. Then the trail dips down to Debuche crossing the Imja River. On the way, we climb up to the Pangboche. With the pristine view of the Himalayas, we follow the upper Pangboche trail. Here, we visit the Pangboche monastery.
Leaving Pangboche, we walk on a moderate trail and enter Imja
Valley. You can see the valley has gradually unfolded as we approach the
confluence of the Lobuche River. We then descend into the river and start the
climb up to Dingboche. The beautiful array of fields enclosed by stone walls
greet us as we reach Dingboche. These stone walls protect barley, buckwheat, and
potatoes from the cold wind and grazing animals.
Dingboche is a summer settlement surrounded by great peaks. Ama
Dablam, the ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse, Tawache, and Cholatse surrounds Dingboche.
Overnight at Dingboche.
Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730m/15,518ft)
After breakfast in Dingboche, we begin our trek to Chhukung. We trek through stone-walled fields, Imja Valley. Then we walk in glacier moraines. While walking, we will be surrounded by Lhotse and Ama Dablam mountains. Continuing our trek, we reach Bibre village. Here you can see Island Peak soaring above us. We follow the trail that is intersected by the icy stream. We reach Chhukung. Chhukung is a small charming settlement. And directly across the Chhukung valley is the fantastic Ama Dablam and the Amphu Labsa mountain. Overnight at Chhukung.
Acclimatization: Climb Chhukung Ri (5,546m) and trek back to Chhukung
It’s a day for another acclimatization. As the altitude is increasing day by day we are coming closer to Island Peak. We need to acclimatize our bodies. And for acclimatizing the body we will climb Chhukung Ri today. Chhukung is located above the Chhukung village. Climbing this peak will help our body to adjust to the high altitude. Moreover, the panorama from the top is breathtaking. You will have an amazing view of Ama Dablam and Amphu Labsa peak from here. After making it to Chhukung Ri we get back to Chhukung Valley and have rest. Overnight at Chhukung
Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp
Today we embark on a journey to the Base Camp of Island Peak. The path to the base camp maintains a consistent level of steepness. From Chhukung, we first climb southward, then turn eastward to reach the main line of the valley. Our trek then continues along a winding trail that runs beneath the southern flank of the Lhotse Glacier’s moraine. Afterward, our journey follows a pleasant, stream-side trail. We then navigate a crisscross route through the Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines. Ultimately, we arrive at a wide area flanking the southwestern side of Island Peak. We will spend the night at the Island Base Camp.
Pre-climb training on Island Peak Base Camp
We will spend a day at the Island Peak Base Camp, where we will have pre-climb training after breakfast. Our experienced guides will teach you the proper techniques for peak climbing, as well as the appropriate ways to use the necessary climbing gear, such as ice axes, harnesses, ascenders, climbing boots, and crampons. The training will also include instruction on how to ascend and descend using ropes. While prior training is not mandatory for Island Peak Climbing, some preparation will boost your confidence and climbing skills. After the training, we will organize our climbing equipment and get ready for the next day’s ascent of Island Peak. We will then spend the night at the Island Tented Camp.
Trek Island Peak Base Camp to Island Peak Summit (6189m / 20305ft) and trek back to camp
Our most anticipated day on the trek has arrived – the climb to the summit of Island Peak. We start our ascent early in the morning, around 1 AM after breakfast. The trail initially rises beyond the base camp for several hundred meters, then traverses a steep hillside. The path transitions from grass to boulders as we climb the hill and enter a steep rock channel. We then navigate a rock gully, following a ridgeline that leads to an exhilarating and exposed traverse onto the glacier at the mountain’s summit.
Our guide will set up ropes as needed, and a steep snow slope will take us onto the summit glacier. Both fixed and dynamic ropes are used for safety during the climb. After overcoming these challenges, we reach the top of Island Peak. The panoramic view from the summit is truly mesmerizing.
Once we’ve savored the summit vistas, we descend back to the Island Base Camp, where we’ll spend the night in our tented camp.
Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche (3985m / 13074ft)
After a wonderful climb to Island Peak, today we are descending. We trek down from the base camp to Pangboche after breakfast. The journey will be easier as we’re going to lower elevations. We walk through the broad Khumbu Khola valley. Following the same path, we pass through the beautiful Sherpa villages of Orsho and Shomare. Continuing our trek, we reach the picturesque Pangboche village. It is surrounded by the towering peaks of Mt. Everest to the north, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega to the east, and the Kongde range to the south. Additionally, the Imja Tse River flows through the wide, fertile valley.
Trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar (3440m / 11286ft)
Departing Pangboche, we retrace our footsteps down to the Imja Khola and ascend through the forest to Tengboche. Continuing our trek, we traverse the verdant hillside blanketed with rhododendrons and juniper trees. Crossing the bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, we follow the trail of the Dudh Khoshi Gorge as it descends through the pine forest, arriving at Sanasa. Passing through the forest beyond Sanasa, we keep an eye out for wildlife such as mountain goats, colorful pheasants, and snow leopards along the way. Finally, we reach the picturesque Namche Bazaar, where we will spend the night.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,850m/9,350ft)
We’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast in Namche. Then we’ll trek back to Lukla. From Namche, we’ll descend while crossing several suspension bridges. We’ll continue our journey to the Dudh Koshi River, reaching Phakding. A gradual walk from Phakding will take us to Cheplung. After ascending, we’ll arrive in Lukla, where you can see prayer flags, chortens, mani walls, and miniature gompas lining the village. We’ll spend the night in Lukla.
Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu
After breakfast at Lukla, we will bid a final farewell to the Everest region. We will reflect on the memorable journey before departing. Today, you will have another thrilling flight back to Kathmandu. During this flight, you will have one last chance to admire the majestic mountains. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Once you have had a chance to rest, you can explore the nearby areas. Later in the evening, you will join Bold Himalaya for a cultural dinner, a farewell celebration of your successful climb to the summit. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Heading Home or Exploring Further
As your journey draws to a close, today marks the final day of your trip. You will be returning to your hometown, with our representative dropping you off at the airport three hours before your scheduled departure. However, if you have the flexibility to extend your stay in Nepal, we would be delighted to arrange another amazing adventure for you to experience, should you be interested.
Inclusions
What's Covered in Your Adventure
- Ground transportation throughout the trip as per the itinerary
- Four-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast
- Best available trekking lodges during the trek and tented camps in the high camps before the Island climbing
- Three meals per day during the trek and climbing period
- All necessary camping equipment for the base camp
- All climbing equipment
- Permit to enter Sagarmatha National Park
- Experienced Climbing Sherpas as guides during the trek and climbing, including their food, accommodation, salary, and insurance
- Porters, including their food, accommodation, salary, and insurance
- TIMS card permit
- Group medical supplies
- One tent available in the base camp for 2 people on a shared basis
- High altitude food and all climbing crew available above the base camp
- Necessary fixed and dynamic ropes available during the climbing period
- A kitchen crew available in the base camp
- Complete pre-departure information, flight ticket reconfirmation, and visa extension service
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu before departure
- All necessary paperwork, office service charges, and government and local taxes.
- Additional breakfast and lunch expenses in Kathmandu
- Dessert and bar charges
- Your international airfare and travel insurance
- Gratuities for the trekking and climbing crew members
Learn More about this Trip
We have listed all the information you may need before you book this package.
Island Peak Climbing presents a challenge. Is ideal, for those who love trekking and want to venture into mountain climbing. The journey typically spans 14 to 19 days with one or two days dedicated solely to climbing. Each day involves trekking across hills and rugged terrains for an average of 4 to 6 hours. The expedition includes navigating glaciers, rivers challenging terrain and mountain passes. On the summit day expect a strenuous climb lasting 12 to 13 hours over a distance of 10 miles. Our team offers climb training ensuring even climbers new, to high-altitude treks can participate confidently.
During the Island Peak Climb, the peak altitude you will reach is 6189 meters, above sea level at the top of Island Peak. Additionally, you will spend nights above 3,000 meters in elevation increasing the risk of experiencing Altitude Sickness symptoms. Therefore it is important to take precautions such, as acclimatization staying hydrated ensuring rest, and so on.
Make sure to read Things to Know before going trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal
Climbing Island Peak is no mountain ascent. It calls for a training program tailored to its challenges. The peak features sections that demand mountaineering expertise including skills, like abseiling and ladder crossings. To tackle the climb successfully one must be well prepared for these aspects. At an altitude of 6,150m there is a segment where descending the headwall requires using a figure eight device, for abseiling or rappelling.
The trek, to the peak of Island Peak, typically takes between 12 to 16 hours depending on the conditions. It’s crucial to concentrate on your strength and endurance during this journey. The adventure doesn’t end there as you’ll also need to trek to Lukla once you’ve reached the summit. Your readiness for the ascent will largely depend on your fitness and prior climbing experience.
While climbing Island Peak without experience is possible it’s essential to undergo training beforehand. Familiarize yourself with ropes, Jumar ascenders, and abseiling techniques using a figure of 8 k, not on fixed lines. Physical conditioning focusing on building both strength and endurance is key, for a climb.
Also, Make sure to read Tips and Advice for Perfect Trekking in Nepal
Our itinerary includes strategic acclimatization periods to ensure successful Island trekking peak climbing. You’ll spend 2 days acclimatizing in Namche and Chhuking, where you’ll climb Chhuking Ri (5,546m) for enhanced acclimatization and prepare for the climbing days before advancing to the peak.
At the base camp, our experienced climbing team will provide comprehensive training on the technical aspects of climbing, including climbing techniques, safety precautions, and proper use of gear. The following day, you’ll embark on the climb fully prepared and equipped.
For up to 2 climbers, one climbing guide will be provided. For groups exceeding 2 climbers, an additional guide will be assigned for every 2 climbers to ensure a successful climb. For instance, if there are 3 climbers, there will be 1 climbing guide and 1 assistant guide, forming a supportive team to facilitate the climb.
Altitude sickness is a concern for hikers. It can be effectively managed with prompt care. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent altitude sickness. Our travel plan is carefully crafted to allow for an ascent giving your body time to acclimate to the changing altitude.
During the Island Peak Climbing expedition, we will spend time adjusting in Namche Bazaar and Chuukung. In Namche you’ll have the chance to explore this Sherpa town while getting used to the altitude. Additionally, we will acclimatize at the Island Peak Base Camp, where we’ll trek up the ridge for views of peaks.
Throughout the journey, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to rest and recuperate. On your days you can focus on rejuvenating yourself by resting, enjoying meals and drinks, reading, unwinding with music, or leisurely exploring the surroundings. Our experienced trek leaders are well-equipped to handle altitudes and have undergone training in wilderness first aid. Your well-being is our priority.
In case someone experiences altitude sickness immediate descent is crucial for recovery. In instances, your trek leader will assess the situation. Make a decision on whether to continue the trek or descend promptly based on the team’s overall condition.
When hiking for, more than 4 to 5 hours daily in regions it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration is common at altitudes so increasing your fluid intake is essential. While bottled water is an option it can be expensive at locations. To save money consider carrying a filtration bottle or purification tablets along with a water bottle to refill at springs and taps along the trail. Tea shops also offer boiled water for a cost, per liter or pot if needed.
During the Island Peak Climbing Trek, you’ll have access, to internet services at the lodges for a fee. At these lodges you can reach out to your loved ones; however, once we ascend to elevations we rely on phones for safe communication. Our trek guide will connect with all team members daily to ensure a journey. If needed our main office is reachable, for assistance. While you can consider purchasing a SIM card in Kathmandu keep in mind that mobile signals may weaken at altitudes.
When you are new to a country it can be quite challenging to navigate the places. We understand this problem so we have arranged a receiving team for you during your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport. You will be properly greeted and be transferred to your hotel. The transfer to the airport service is also available during your departure from Nepal and this service is included in the trip cost.
You will need to acquire the following permits before starting to climb Island Peak.
NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association) Permit
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Local Area Permit (Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance permit)
You will not need to pay the permit cost once you pay us the tour cost. The permit cost is included in the trip package. But for information well-being,team’spurposes below listed are the cost for the permits.
The fee, for a climbing permit can vary between $70 and $250, per individual depending on the season. This permit is issued by the NMA. Additionally, the Local Area Permit required for trekking costs $50.
| Numbers of Climber | Price Per Climbers in USD |
| 1 | 2150 |
| 2 | 1950 |
| 3 | 1875 |
| 4 | 1800 |
| 5 | 1700 |
This particular trek is quite challenging, due to the risks associated with high-altitude hiking, potential altitude sickness, and unexpected weather changes. Travel insurance is mandatory for those embarking on the Island Peak Climbing expedition. Before commencing the trek, all hikers must provide us with a copy of their travel insurance policy certificate. The policy should include coverage for emergencies, emergency repatriation, helicopter rescue, and evacuation costs at altitudes (up to 6000m).
While we can suggest insurance providers to assist you please note that we do not directly sell insurance policies. Kindly forward us a copy of your insurance policy certificate within a week of confirming your booking, for the Island Peak Climb. Once you have booked the trekking adventure we kindly ask all participants to share their insurance details with us. In case of emergencies, we will utilize your insurance policy and any other relevant documents you have provided us for rescue operations and transfers to facilities.
Foreigners except Indians need a visa to visit Nepal. However, most nationals can obtain a visa upon arrival, at Tribhuvan International Airport and other border checkpoints in Nepal. To apply for a visa you will need a passport for at least six months a 30-day,passport-sized photo, and the applicable visa fees. The current fee stands at USD 50 for a 30-day stay. Chinese citizens and those from countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, Pakistan Maldives Sri Lanka) are eligible for visas with certain restrictions. Additionally children, under the age of 10 are granted visas.
People hailing from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan might not be eligible, for a visa upon arrival. Therefore individuals from these nations will need to reach out to the embassy in their area. It’s important to note that visa regulations in Nepal are subject to change, without advance notice. To stay updated on the visa details kindly visit https://www.immigration.gov.np/
Clothes
Sun hat or scarf
Winter hat insulating hat or Wide-brimmed hat
Sunscreen
Sunglass with UV protection
Hiking shirts
Long-sleeved shirt
Hooded rain jacket
Fleece jacket
Lightweight cotton pants
Heavyweight winter gloves
Expedition grade down jacket
Sweater
Polar fleece trousers or similar mid-layer trousers
Goose-down trousers or bibs. Or a down suit
Use waterproof stuff sacks to keep your clothes dry.
Footwear
Hiking Boots
Thick wool socks (Take an extra pair of thick light socks)
Gears
Backpack or daypack (Size depends on whether you take a porter or not).
Thermal bottle
Water purification
Trekking pole
Sleeping bag (-15 bag is best in the high altitude trekking)
Toiletries
Medium-size drying towel
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Biodegradable bar soap
During the Island Peak Climb, our team of guides and Sherpas who are licensed, trained, and highly experienced will be there to ensure your journey is comfortable and unforgettable. Each group of two trekkers will have a designated porter with a luggage weight limit of 18 kg to avoid overloading.
Our crew consists of individuals, from the Himalayas who are well-adapted to the region’s challenges. We value our staff members greatly providing them with compensation and covering their insurance, clothing, meals, and accommodation during the expedition. They receive attention promptly if they fall ill or get injured.
We ensure the safety, security, and satisfaction of our clients with safety being our priority. We will have all the gear, equipment, and first aid kits, for the journey. Additionally, we provide top-notch equipment in the market. Our leaders and guides have received first-aid training.
You will be accompanied by a Sherpa guide who has successfully summited Island Peak times. The Island Base Camp includes a doctor as part of the team. In case a participant falls ill due to altitude sickness it will be, at the discretion of the trek leader whether to continue or descend immediately. We will trek together for the safety of the group.
The Himalayan Rescue Center can be found in Pheriche, a distance, below Chukkung. In Netop-notchpal helicopter evacuations are commonly used for emergencies. There is an established system, for managing logistics. It’s crucial to have travel insurance and communicate your destination and activities clearly to the insurance provider. In case of an emergency the team, including guides, porters, and other nearby individuals will initially handle the task of moving a casualty.
The objective is to move the injured person to a location and then to a spot where they can be evacuated. On a summit,t this might involve covering some distance and taking some time. Typically we don’t carry satellite phones nowadays due, to the use of phones. However, distance is, there may be instances where walking a distance is necessary to reach a shelter with phone connectivity.
When dealing with altitude sickness it’s advisable not to take risks and descend. Going higher could quickly lead to conditions like cerebral or pulmonary edema, which can render you incapacitated. Therefore if you’re feeling unwell it’s usually best to descend while you still have mobility. Although emergencies are rare in the supported region of Nepal where Island Peak is located rest assured that all necessary facilities will be available, in case of any crisis.
This trip costs Rs, 1890 USD. The trip consists of climbing permits, transportation, base camp accommodations, sherpa guides, etc. For more detailed information about what’s included in the trip package check out the include/exclude section of this page.
Everest base camp trek with island peak climbing
This is an incredible combination of two distinct adventures in a single package where you will experience mountain climbing as well as reach the base camp of the world-famous Mount Everest.
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
If you have any allergies, to medicines it’s best to check with your doctor. You can usually find medications in Kathmandu.
While it’s not possible to avoid altitude sickness there are ways to reduce its risks. Proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and taking an ascent are essential, in preventing altitude sickness. It’s important to follow your guide’s recommendations maintain a pace and pay attention to your body’s signals. Our guides will also provide you with tips during the climb.
To book the trek you can visit our website. Reach out to us directly. We require a payment of 10 percent of the trip cost to confirm your booking. Payment methods accepted include bank transfers, credit cards, Wise, or Western Union. The remaining balance will be due upon your arrival in Kathmandu.
Yes, all trekkers and climbers are required to have travel insurance. It’s important to make sure that your insurance policy includes coverage, for high-altitude trekking and climbing as helicopter medical evacuation.
We assign one porter for every two trekkers with a luggage allowance of 18 kgs (9 kgs, per trekker). Porters do transport your gear. Also, provide motivation for you to conquer new heights. Your kindness and generosity serve as inspiration for them to work diligently towards ensuring your journey.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Boldhimalaya will be waiting for you outside the arrival lounge holding a sign with your name, on it. They will then escort you to your chosen hotel in a vehicle.
Typically you’ll be lodging in teahouses, hotels, or lodges with twin sharing rooms. These places also offer meals. The bathrooms are usually located outside the rooms. Hot showers and running water may be accessible for a fee, at most of these establishments. For peak climbs you may need to camp out in tents.
After making the payment, for booking please email us the following documents.
Please provide a copy of your passport, passport photos, flight information including arrival and departure details, and a copy of your travel insurance.
You will require climbing permits and entry permits as necessary. Boldhimalaya will obtain these permits for you so you can enjoy your trek without any hassle.
We ensure the safety, security, and satisfaction of our clients. Our trekking team will have all the gear, equipment, and first aid kits. Additionally, our guides have undergone aid training.
Climbing Island Peak is considered difficult requiring mental fitness rather than technical expertise. While prior climbing experience isn’t mandatory it’s advisable to be healthy and engage in activities, like hiking, jogging, cycling, or swimming before embarking on the trek.
How much time should I spend walking each day on my trek or climbing? The duration of hiking will vary between 5 to 7 hours daily based on the terrain and where we are headed.
The recommended times for climbing Island Peak are during Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) when the weather is favorable offering vistas of the Himalayas and minimizing challenges.
Island Peak can be found in the Khumbu region of Nepal nestled beyond Mt. Everest and Lhotse. It is also situated within the Sagarmatha National Park.
It stands at a height of 6,189 meters, above sea level.
Indonesia
4 Days
