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Island Peak Cimbing

Island Peak Climbing

Based on 25 reviews
duration
Duration

16 Days

difficulty
Trip Difficulty

Difficult

max-altitude
Max. Altitude

6,160m

destination
Destination

Nepal

group-size
Group Size

2-16 People

meals
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

accommodation
Accommodation

Lodge, Teahouse

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Overview of Island Peak Climbing

Island Peak Climbing is a well-known, rewarding trekking destination in Nepal’s Khumbu region, standing tall at 6189 meters (20,306 feet) above sea level. It is also known as Imja Tse because of its location near the Imja Valley. It is one of the most visited destinations by people who adore confronting physical challenges, along with enjoying the mind-blowing Himalayan panorama.

This 16-day journey in the Everest region will take you through quaint Sherpa villages, terraced fields, thick green forests, swift-flowing streams, swaying suspension bridges, and much more. Similarly, you will also explore iconic monasteries and hike past the chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags, which adds cultural value to your journey.

Your Island Peak Climbing cost package kicks off at the gateway of the Solu Khumbu region, Lukla town, with a hike to lovely Phakding Village. From here, you will make your way to Island Base Camp, passing through popular settlements such as Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Chhukung.

The ultimate pinnacle of your expedition will be summiting the Island Peak (Imja Tse). Before you reach the top, you will have the opportunity to learn about mountaineering techniques and the use of equipment from your guide. The beauty of this trek is that anyone with strong willpower and decent fitness can conquer the peak, even as a novice.

Standing on the summit of Island Peak rewards you with breathtaking Himalayan views, including the world’s tallest peak, Mount Sagarmatha (Everest), and adjacent mountains such as Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Baruntse, Cho Oyu, and so on. While returning after exploration, you will explore the Everest region’s oldest monastery, Pangboche Monastery, which is believed to have been built in the seventeenth century.

With the support of our experienced RAD Global Adventure team, this 16-day Island Peak Climbing itinerary excursion is totally achievable. This journey is the ultimate experience, combining natural beauty, cultural interaction, and a profound sense of achievement upon reaching the top.

Good To Know

The 16-day Island Peak climbing route in the Khumbu region is classified PD+, indicating a physically challenging expedition with just minimal technical elements. You will have to trek for long hours, tackle difficult uphill stretches, and endure the cold conditions at high elevations.

On the summit push, you will have to cope with thin air and confront strong winds. So, make sure you are well prepared and physically fit before beginning on this expedition to avoid any problems while trekking.

The Island Peak Climbing cost package is best suited for autumn (Sep-Nov) and spring (Mar-May). The reason is because autumn brings crisp weather, colorful fall foliage, and joyous festivals to Nepal. On the other hand, the springtime brings the best of nature, with trekking routes lined with rhododendron.

On this 16-day Island Peak Climbing cost package expedition, you can expect three meals a day, which include breakfast with a cup of tea or coffee, lunch, and dinner. Teahouses usually offer food options like Nepali dal bhat, Momo, stews, thukpas, noodles, and so on. Different varieties of drink options are available, but it will cost you from your own pocket, as it is not included in the package.

The 16-day Island Peak Climbing itinerary exposes you to high-elevation environments where low oxygen levels increase your chances of suffering altitude sickness. One can suffer from symptoms like loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, nausea, and headache, which can be a high risk to health if not treated in time. So, to reduce the risk, trekkers must drink water regularly, eat healthy food, climb gradually, and take breaks.

To plan an Island Peak climbing adventure, trekkers should be physically healthy and well-prepared. Hikers should work on their stamina, cardio health, and general physical fitness to be ready for their journey. Regular physical activities and exercises will empower you to conquer uphill walks and enjoy the trek at a high elevation, thereby making your hiking safe.

Once at the airport, you can obtain a visa, which is typically valid for 15, 30, or 90 days. Permits such as an Island Peak climbing permission from the Nepal Mountaineering Association, a local area (Khumbu) permit, a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, and an entry permit for Sagarmatha National Park should be carried when walking in the Everest region.

Climbing Island Peak requires careful attention to your well-being so that you can complete this journey without any health issues. You should regularly monitor your body for elevation-related symptoms. While walking, be mindful of taking breaks and avoiding bad habits like smoking. Similarly, for safety back, make sure you carry your reliable travel insurance.

It’s easy to travel to and from the Everest region using a combination of vehicle transfers and aircraft. Your trekking adventure kicks off with a scenic flight to Lukla from the capital. From Lukla, you will mostly travel on foot with your guide, porter, and fellow trekkers. RAD Global Adventure covers all the costs of air and ground transportation except international flights on the Island Peak Climbing package.

While embarking on the Island Peak Climbing itinerary, the connectivity is quite limited in key villages and lodges on the trail. The internet provided by the teahouses can cost you a nominal fee. However, for a reliable network, you can buy a local SIM card for calls and data to stay well-connected even though you are traveling in the heart of the Khumbu region in the mountains.

Apart from this 16-day Island Peak Climbing itinerary route in the Khumbu region, there are also a multitude of alternative routes that offer a distinctive experience. Trekkers can choose the Everest Base Camp trail through Gokyo Lakes for stunning turquoise lakes and fewer crowds. Similarly, for a more challenging journey, trekkers can go on a Three Passes Trek (Kongma, Cho La, and Renjo La Pass) and Mera Peak climbing expedition.

Some additional expenses are not included in the Island Peak Climbing pricing package, such as Nepal visa fees, dining in Kathmandu (except the farewell supper), and travel insurance. Furthermore, personal charges include snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, laundry, tips for guides and porters, and any emergency or evacuation costs that are not included in the package.

While traveling in the Everest region, you can find people who can speak English in lodges and teahouses. Similarly, sign language, simple Nepali phrases, and gestures can help you communicate in the remote areas. If you find difficulty communicating and interacting with locals, your guide will be there to help you and make your travel experience more enjoyable.

Detail Itinerary

On this first day of the 16-day Island Peak Climbing itinerary, you will arrive in Nepal, landing at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. Our team would give you a warm welcome and take you to your lodging located on a bustling street of Thamel.

You can utilize the rest of your time in Kathmandu visiting shops, local markets, cafes, and the nearby attractions of Kathmandu City. Then, in the evening, you can join our RAD Global Adventure office for a brief overview of the Island Peak Climbing cost package.

accommodation-small

Accommodation: Hotel

altitude-small

Max Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft. (Kathmandu)

If our standard itinerary doesn't fully meet your needs, we are happy to tailor it to your specific preferences and requirements.

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Includes and Excludes

What’s Included?

Transportation

  • International airport transfers
  • Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu round trip flight

Food and Accommodation

  • Full meals: breakfast, lunch & dinner on your choice.
  • Supplementary snacks: energy bar and cookies
  • Seasonal fresh fruits deserts every day
  • Unlimited chlorine treated safe drinking water
  • Accommodation: Lodge (twin room) & tented camp at Island Peak Base Camp

Guide and Support Staff

  • An experienced english-speaking trekking guide
  • Certified climbing Sherpa (one for every 2–3 climbers)
  • Porter service for luggage (one porter for every two trekkers)

Permit and Expenses

  • Island Peak Climbing Permit
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card
  • All local and government taxes
  • Guide and porter salaries, insurance, equipment, transport, food and lodging

Medical and Gear

  • Oxi-meter: To check , heart rating and oxygen saturation
  • A comprehensive first aid kit
  • Emergency rescue in case of severe illness or injury (costs covered by your insurance)
  • Trekking and climbing equipment: down-filled sleeping bag, walking poles, duffel bag, climbing harness, helmet, crampons, ice axe
  • Free luggage storage in Kathmandu

Others

  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Pre-climb training at Island Peak Base Camp
  • Certificate of appreciation
  • Trekking/climbing route map and company t-shirt

What is not Included?

International Flights and Visa

  • International flights and visa

Food and Accommodations

  • Meals in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
  • Any hotel stays in Kathmandu before or after the trek

Travel and Medical Insurance

  • Comprehensive travel and medical insurance
  • Emergency rescue evacuation

Other Expenses

  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Unexpected expenses due to weather, flight cancellations, strikes, or natural causes

Route Map & Altitude Chart

Download PDF
Island Peak Climbing 16 Days Map

Attractions and Highlights of Island Peak Climbing

Thrilling Lukla Flight

The journey to Lukla is a memorable experience as you begin the Island Peak Climbing tour in the Solu Khumbu area of Nepal. You will soar above the snow-clad Himalaya views, deep valleys, and flowing rivers. A significant highlight of the short flight is touching down on Lukla’s dramatic mountain runway. The 35-minute aerial view will be a feast for your eyes.

Sherpa Villages & Monasteries

This 16-day trek is much more than just summiting Island Peak; it’s also about visiting picturesque villages, waving colorful prayer flags, and meeting friendly locals along the way. Visits to historic monasteries perched on the slopes, such as Pangboche and Tengboche, deepen your spiritual journey by connecting you culturally and spiritually. Each day, you will receive a cordial reception in each Sherpa village where you will be staying overnight.

Ascend Nepal’s most popular Island Peak (6,189 m)

The main intention of such a thrilling journey to conquer the top of Island Peak that is 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) high. You climb the peak, navigating icy and steep paths with the help of mountaineering gear. Standing on the summit will be your crowning moment of this 16-day adventure in the Solu Khumbu region. The sweeping views of Ama Dablam, Everest, Nuptse, and other surrounding Himalayan giants are truly spectacular and unforgettable.

Experience Glacier Travel and Summit Climbing Training

One of the best ways to achieve a summit on the Island is to go through a glacier and some mountaineering lessons at the Island Base Camp first. Your companion guide will demonstrate the correct way of using your ropes, ice axes, crampons, and harnesses so that you can get familiarized with the equipment. Training of this nature assures your security and delight in your Island Peak ascent.

Blend of Teahouse Comfort and Tent Camping at High Altitude

On this 16-day Island Peak Climbing adventure, you will have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the cozy teahouse stays in the lovely Sherpa Village with three nights of tented camping at Island Base Camp (5200 meters), surrounded by gigantic peaks. Teahouses offer warm hospitality, locally sourced cuisine, and a glimpse into the Sherpa culture and traditions. While at camp, you will sleep under the open sky, surrounded by dazzling stars, making the experience worthwhile for unforgettable memories.

Climbing rewarding Chhukung Ri at 5546 meters

On the eighth day of your Island Peak Climbing package, you will have the opportunity to ascend Chhukung Ri, a striking viewpoint at 5546 meters, as an acclimatization process. The climb is steep yet non-technical, which will treat you to the breathtaking sweeping panoramas of Island Peak, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu once you reach the top. It will be one of the rewarding side adventures on this 16-day expedition in the Khumbu region.

Blend of Trekking & Climbing

This Island Peak Climbing itinerary seamlessly merges scenic trekking with the excitement of alpine climbing in Nepal’s Everest region. You will pass through the routes that consist of Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, stunning valleys, and broad open alpine areas before reaching the base camp.

When you reach the day of the summit push, you will actually ascend the top with your climbing gear, such as ropes and ice axes, your determination, and your positive mindset. And it doesn’t matter if you are trekking or climbing, every day will be a wonderful experience in the mountains.

Trip Information of Island Peak Climbing

Is this trip beginner-friendly?

The Island Peak Climbing package is appropriate for novices because the hike is moderately strenuous. However, of all the days on the 16-day program, the summit push is the most difficult. So, if you are a beginner with no experience at all, you must be well-prepared, have basic mountaineering training, and have strong determination to complete the journey.

Private trip vs Group Joining

Depending on your interests, you can either go on a private excursion or join a group. While group tours provide camaraderie, teamwork, and shared expenses, private trip offer more individualized experiences and the opportunity to travel at one’s own pace. Both options provide the same adventure, differing only in comfort and luxury.

Trip Extension

The Island Peak Climbing cost package can be easily extended to explore more of the Himalayas in the Solu Khumbu region. You can extend your side trips to Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, or other Sherpa villages in the area. If you want a comfortable journey, you can also take a Kathmandu Valley sightseeing tour after returning to Kathmandu. Additionally, you can enjoy the wilderness in Chitwan National Park and engage in daring activities like bungee jumping and paragliding in Pokhara.

Solo trek

Solo trekking to Island Peak is only possible with a guide from a registered travel agency. This will guarantee your safety, that the path will be navigated appropriately, and that you will abide by the rules and regulations of Nepal while traveling on your own. Solo trekking provides you with more solitude and time to appreciate the Himalayan grandeur of the Khumbu region at your own leisure.

Photography & Drone Rules

You can freely capture natural landscape photographs while embarking on the 16-day Island Peak Climbing itinerary. The photography that you capture of stunning mountains, cultural moments, villages, and local people will be your memories that will live with you forever. However, you need special permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal to use drones, and they are strictly regulated in Sagarmatha National Park. Please keep in mind that you have to respect privacy and request permission to take photos or videos in the villages and monasteries.

Cultural Festivals on the Trail

There are numerous cultural festivals along the trail, including Dashain, Tihar, Mani Rimdu, and local celebrations in Sherpa villages, depending on the time of year you visit Nepal for the Island Peak Climbing cost package. These special festivals will make your journey both a cultural and a natural exploration, which is priceless.

Tips for First-Time Nepal Visitors

If you are a first-time visitor, you should definitely carry cash in local currency for your personal expenses, as banks and ATMs are not available after Namche Bazaar. Similarly, you should pack correctly and dress in layers to stay warm and cozy in the mountains. Besides this, respect local people and follow your guide’s instructions to ensure a stress-free and pleasant hiking journey.

Typical Daily Routine on the Trek

First of all, each day of this trip to Island Peak will start with a proper breakfast at the teahouse where you spent the night. As you trek through gorgeous Himalaya scenery, you will come across not only easy paths but also some challenging climbs along with cultural visits to the Sherpa villages.

You will have lunch on the way to the next overnight stop at a trail teahouse. By the afternoon, you will reach your overnight destination, where you can explore, acclimate, and prepare for the next leg. You will spend your evenings savoring a tasty dinner and interacting with the locals.

Mental Preparation & Trekking Mindset

The trekker’s mindset is one of the most important things that lead to success at Island Peak. Patience, adaptation, and concentration will carry you through the long marches, hard climbs, and ever-changing weather conditions. Set your goals, do the mountain at your own pace, and calm yourself when it comes hard. A strong and positive cheerful energy may just give you all the endurance you may need and also the capacity to be safe up there-angle making the whole Himalayan experience all the more rewarding and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Island Peak (Imja Tse) lies in the Solu Khumbu region of eastern Nepal, inside the wonderful Sagarmatha National Park.

Island Peak is about 6,160 meters high above sea level and can be climbed by trekkers with a fit body and a positive mindset.

It can be done in 10 days, but to complete this journey safely, it can take up to 16 days, including acclimatization days to adjust to the rising altitude.

On average, you will need to trek five to six hours per day. However, the time duration of the walk also depends on the pace and rest taken while hiking in the mountains.

You will stay each night in teahouses or trekking lodges along the trail, with basic twin beds, cushions, and warm blankets. However, in the peak season and secluded locations, you may have to sleep the night in a tent.

Hiring a porter can be optional. However, a porter is still a good option for you. Your trek will be simpler and more comfortable, as your heavy equipment and other luggage will be with them, allowing you to move at your usual pace through the route’s various ascent and descent parts.

To be prepared, you should have all the required equipment with you, such as helmets, crampons, sturdy boots, harnesses, ropes, and some layers of clothing. You can easily rent the required equipment in Kathmandu if it is not available.

If you get sick, several Himalayan health posts offer rudimentary medical care. In the event of a serious sickness or an accident, you will be evacuated to Kathmandu by helicopter.

You should carry enough cash, about $25 per day per person, for your additional expenses like electricity, showers, and internet. However, some budget travelers can also manage their per day with $15 per person.

No mandatory vaccines are needed to visit Nepal. However, you should first consult your doctor for recommended travel vaccinations before your trip.

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25 reviews
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