Trip Summary
Ascending a snow-draped peak is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, tackling giants like Everest (8848.86 m) is not for the faint-hearted. This doesn’t mean you can’t achieve your dream of standing atop a snow-covered summit. Peak climbing in Nepal offers a more accessible alternative. Island Peak Climbing is perfect for beginners and seasoned climbers alike. Situated near the Lhotse massif in Nepal’s Everest region, it provides an authentic mountaineering experience.
Island Peak Climbing – Suitable for All Levels
Expedition-style climbing is the most demanding form of mountaineering. In contrast, peak climbing is more moderate. Typically, expeditions target mountains over 7000 m, while peak climbing focuses on those below 7000 m. Some technical peaks under 7000 m, like Amadablam, still require expedition-style approaches.
Imja Tse or Island Peak
Island Peak is also known locally as Imja Tse. The name “Island Peak” was given by British climbers in 1953 due to its island-like appearance amidst surrounding mountains. For a clear view, look from Dingboche. Locals named it Imja Tse in 1983. Both names are correct.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing (6191 m)
Most Island Peak Climbing itineraries include the Everest Base Camp Trek, offering both scenic and acclimatization benefits. Climbers follow the EBC Trek route until returning to Dingboche from the base camp. For detailed ascent information, refer to our EBC Trek package.
Enjoy two unforgettable experiences in one trip: standing at the base camp of Mt. Everest and reaching Island Peak’s summit (6191 m).
Acclimatization Breaks
Three days of acclimatization are crucial for a successful climb. The Island Peak itinerary includes three acclimatization sessions. The first is at Namche Bazaar, involving a climb to Hotel Everest View (3800 m) and an overnight stay in Namche. The second is at Dingboche Village, with a climb to Nagarshan Hill (5100 m). The final session is at the Chhukung Valley and Island Peak Base Camp.
Effective acclimatization involves hiking at high altitudes and resting at lower ones.
Location of Island Peak
Island Peak is the highlight of peak climbing in Nepal’s Khumbu region. Among the top three peaks, it is the most renowned. The other two are Lobuche Peak and Mera Peak. Island Peak is an extension of Lhotse Shar’s ridge, located near the Chhukung Valley, north of Dingboche. The trail to Island Peak Base Camp branches off from the Everest Base Camp Trek, allowing climbers to combine both adventures and save on separate trekking costs.
Climbing Route of Island Peak
Before attempting to climb Island Peak, climbers receive short climbing training. After a brief briefing, even novice climbers can attempt the ascent. Upon reaching Island Peak Base Camp (5087 m), also known as Pareshaya Grab, the Sherpa team prepares for the climb. Some climbers start their summit push from the base camp, while others opt for the high camp (5600 m) to aid the final ascent. However, high camps may lack drinking water and make sleep more challenging.
The climbing route features dangerous crevasses, but the Sherpa team has installed a fixed aluminum ladder to assist climbers, as requested by the Nepal Mountaineering Association.
From the high camp, climbers follow a fixed rope line after a brief hike. The final stretch is steep and narrow, requiring climbers to gain about 100 meters. The panoramic mountain views from the summit are well worth the effort.
Can I See Mount Everest from the Top of Island Peak?
No, Mount Everest is not visible from Island Peak’s summit. Despite the short 10-kilometer distance, Lhotse mountain obstructs the view.
Best Time for Peak Climbing
Spring and autumn are Nepal’s prime trekking seasons, with spring being ideal for Island Peak Climbing. Contact our travel planners to book your adventure. Island Peak (6091 m) awaits.
Do I Need Special Training for Peak Climbing?
Peak climbing doesn’t require special training, but expeditions of mountains over 7000 m do. For trekking peaks, a novice climber can succeed with a skilled Sherpa team. However, peak physical fitness is essential. Engage in cardio exercises and maintain peak condition before climbing.
The Sherpa team provides basic training, covering gear knowledge, fixed rope handling, and crampon walking. Rest assured, our experienced Sherpa team will prepare you for an unforgettable climb. Other popular Everest region climbs include Mera Peak, Labuche, Pokalte Peak, and Amadablam.
Itinerary
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from our team will warmly welcome you. You’ll be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle, where you can relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner, offering a flavorful introduction to the local cuisine. This will also be a great opportunity to meet your trekking team and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Today is reserved for an immersive exploration of Kathmandu's rich cultural and historical heritage. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you will visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa (the Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and the historic Durbar Square. These sites reflect Nepal’s deep spiritual traditions and diverse history. After a full day of sightseeing, return to your hotel to relax and prepare for your Himalayan journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic 4–5 hour drive to Manthali Airport (Ramechhap). During peak trekking seasons, most flights to Lukla depart from here. From Manthali, you’ll take a thrilling 20-minute flight to Lukla (2,860m / 9,383 ft), the gateway to the Khumbu region.
Upon landing, your trek officially begins at the Pasang Lhamu Memorial Gate, honoring the first Nepali woman to summit Everest. You’ll descend through charming Sherpa villages, walk along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags, and pass several chortens (Buddhist shrines). After approximately four hours of trekking, you'll arrive at Phakding and settle into a welcoming teahouse for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today’s journey leads to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region. The trail passes through picturesque villages and lush forests, crossing several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge.
Entering Sagarmatha National Park, you'll continue alongside the Dudh Koshi River, passing landmarks like Mislung and Larja Dovan, all while surrounded by majestic mountain views. The final ascent to Namche is steep but rewarding, bringing you to this bustling Sherpa town where you’ll stay overnight in a cozy teahouse.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Proper acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness, so we’ll spend the day exploring Namche and its surroundings. A short hike will take you to key landmarks such as the Hillary School, the longest Mani wall in the Khumbu region, and stunning viewpoints of snow-capped peaks. You’ll also visit Khunde Tsamkhang, a revered monastery. After the exploration, return to the teahouse for rest and preparation for the trek ahead.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
After breakfast, the trek continues through Sagarmatha National Park. Along the way, you’ll visit Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important spiritual centers in the region. The trail offers beautiful views of smaller, yet spectacular mountains and passes through the village of Phunki Thanga. If timing permits, you may witness a traditional Buddhist ceremony at the monastery. You’ll spend the night in a teahouse at Tengboche.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today’s trek brings even more breathtaking scenery. You’ll pass through lush landscapes alongside the Imja and Lobuche Rivers, with constant views of towering peaks like Mt. Everest and Lhotse. The trail first leads to Pangboche, where you can admire the ancient monastery, before continuing towards Dingboche. Here, colorful prayer flags and chortens welcome you to the village. After a warm dinner, you'll settle into a teahouse for a restful night.
hiking nangkarsang ri 5100mtr and back to hotel dingbuche
After breakfast, we trek to Gorakshep, arriving for lunch. Afterward, we continue to the awe-inspiring Everest Base Camp, surrounded by the towering peaks of Nuptse, Khumbutse, and others. By evening, we return to Gorakshep for an overnight stay at a teahouse.
Early morning, we hike to Kalapatthar to witness the magical sunrise over Mt. Everest. After soaking in the panoramic views of Thamserku, Lobuche, Cholatse, and more, we return to Gorakshep for breakfast. We then trek to Dingboche, where we stay overnight in a cozy teahouse.
Following breakfast, we head toward Chukung, where the climbing phase of our adventure begins. Upon arrival, you’ll receive all necessary climbing gear from the expedition leader. After some training with the equipment, we enjoy dinner and rest overnight in a teahouse.
Today is dedicated to preparing for the summit. Special training sessions will be held to ensure you’re physically and mentally ready. We’ll also do a final check of all gear at Island Peak Base Camp before resting for the night.
This is the highlight of our expedition!
Before dawn, using headlamps, we start our ascent of Island Peak. As the sun rises, breathtaking views unfold. After reaching the summit and taking in the stunning Himalayan scenery, we descend back to Base Camp.
After breakfast, we retrace our steps toward Chukung. Along the way, we enjoy the beauty of Sherpa villages and mountain scenery.
Today we trek back to Namche Bazaar, once again passing through the incredible landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park. We reach Namche by noon and enjoy a relaxing evening.
After an early breakfast, we trek to Phakding and continue to Lukla. Enjoy the rivers, forests, and Sherpa culture one last time before spending the night at a hotel in Lukla.
We board a short 35-minute flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you can either relax at the hotel or explore the city at your leisure. Our team will assist with your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Farewell until next time!