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Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek

Overview Itinerary

Overview

The 16 Days Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek is a combined journey that takes you deep into the Everest region. It perfectly combines a thrilling experience of trekking on the classic trails along with climbing a peak. Get ready to experience an awe-inspiring adventure, rich culture, and breathtaking views with our well-planned trek package. Island Peak sits at an altitude of 6189 meters and is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal. Also known as Imja Tse, Island Peak was named by the members of the 1953 British Mount Everest Expedition team. The peak looks like an island amidst the sea of ice from Dingboche. It is also a famous training peak among the Mount Everest Expedition team. Our 16-day Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek begins with a flight to Lukla. The trekking trail takes us past famous settlements like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorak Shep, Chukkung, and more. Similarly, we will trek past several ancient monasteries and gompas.

Following the classic trail, the trek allows us to explore the Everest Base Camp (5364 m) and Kala Patthar (5555 m). Then, we will take a route from Chhukung and climb up to the Island Peak. During the trek, we can witness enchanting views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, and more. You will also be treated to a gorgeous sunrise view from Kala Patthar. Additionally, you will get a glimpse at local culture and taste the warm hospitality. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned trekker, our 16 Days Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek is perfect. You will get a taste of trekking in the Himalayas and mountaineering adventures. Join this extraordinary venture and conquer Island Peak with us!

Trekking Trips Activity
Easy Grade

Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights

  • Join a journey on a classic route of the Everest region combined with peak climbing.
  • Get on a scenic and thrilling mountain flight to Lukla.
  • Trek through dense subtropical forests of rhododendron groves, alpine meadows, green pastures, and tundra vegetation.
  • Explore famous settlements like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorak Shep, and more.
  • Traverse deep into the heart of the Everest region within the Sagarmatha National Park.
  • Witness diverse and unique Himalayan flora and fauna.
  • Visit ancient monasteries and gompas, including the Tengboche Monastery.
  • Hike up to the Everest Base Camp (5364 m) and Kala Patthar (5545 m).
  • Summit the famous trekking peak, the Island Peak (6183 m).
  • Witness 360-degree views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Mera Peak, Thamserku, and more.
  • See the spectacular view of the Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall.
  • Stay at charming teahouses run by the locals and experience authentic Nepalese hospitality.
  • Immerse in the vibrant Sherpa culture and tradition while glimpsing at their lifestyle.

16 Days Itinerary of Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek

Day 1 | Flight from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft) Trek to Phakding (2,650m / 8,562ft)

On the first day, you will catch an early flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. It is a 40-minute scenic flight that offers your first glimpse of the landscapes and mountain vistas of the Everest region. Your flight from Kathmandu may be redirected to Mathanli Airport, Ramechhap, due to air traffic. In such a case, you must drive to Ramechhap, which will take around 5 hours. The flight from Manthali Airport to Lukla takes only around 20 minutes.

After landing in Lukla, our trek will begin. It will be a short three-hour trek on this day. The trail from Lukla is gentle, with no steep uphill and downhill climbs. It goes through subtropical and conifer forests. You will pass by the Chaurikharka village and descend towards the Dudh Koshi River. We will stay overnight at Phakding. If we arrive early, l explore the village and the Rimishung Monastery.

Flight Time:

3 hours

Distance:

: 6.2 km/ 3.8 miles

Altitude:

2850 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Phakding

Day 2 | Trek from Phakding (2,650m / 8,562ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft)

After breakfast, we will leave Phakding village and start trekking along the northern bank of the Dudh Koshi River. The trail gradually ascends, passing by several small, charming villages. En route, you will cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. Then, we will arrive at Monjo village.

The Sagarmatha National Park’s entrance and checkpoint lie close to Monjo. We will register our permits and enter the national park area. The trail goes through dense forests of rhododendrons, oaks, and firs. Then, the trail becomes steep as we get close to Namche Bazaar. We will also get our first glimpse of Mount Everest.

Distance:

7.4 km/ 4.6 miles

Altitude:

3440 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Namche Bazaar

Day 3 | Rest day and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital and trading hub of the Everest region, serves as our first acclimatization stop. It is essential to stay active to ensure that our bodies adapt well to the growing altitude. You can freely explore the vibrant market and narrow alleyways of the Namche Bazaar. You can also take a short hike to Khumjung (3790 m) or the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center. While in Khumjung, you can visit the famous Khumjung Monastery, which houses the mysterious yeti scalp, and the Hillary School.

Similarly, you can hike to Khunde. The world’s highest airport, Syangboche Airport, is also within a short distance of Namche. You can also take an excursion to the Everest View Hotel, which offers a spectacular view of Mount Everest and Ama Dablam. After a full day of excursions, we will return to Namche Bazaar.

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Namche Bazaar

Day 4 | Trek from Namche (3,440m / 11,285ft) to Tengboche (3,855m / 12,850ft)

We will leave Namche Bazaar following the trail that goes through dense forest. It is also more demanding as we ascend and descend steep paths and stone staircases. The stunning view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Island Peak will accompany us throughout the trek. Likewise, you will get to observe various Himalayan flora and fauna along the way.

As we continue trekking, we will cross the Dudh Koshi River and enter the forest of conifers. We will pass a small settlement called Phunki Tenga before reaching Tengboche. The village is home to the biggest Buddhist monastery in the Everest region, the Tengboche Monastery. From here, you can witness a stunning view of Mount Ama Dablam. We will stay overnight at a lodge in Tengboche.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

9.2 km/ 5.7 miles

Altitude:

3855 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Tengboche

Day 5 | Trek from Tengboche (3,855m / 12,850ft) to Dingboche (4,360m / 14,290ft)

We will continue our trek from Tengboche and head towards Dingboche. The trail gradually begins to ascend and take us to Pangboche. You can see that the trail leading to the Pangboche passes by several mani walls, chortens, and colorful prayer flags. Similarly, we can also witness the stunning view of Island Peak from a distance.

Then, we will follow the Lobuche River and enter the Imja Valley. From here onwards, we must make a steep uphill climb to reach Dingboche. The village of Dingboche is the last permanent settlement before the Everest Base Camp. It is surrounded by stone walls that protect the crops from cold winds.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

12 km/ 7.45 miles

Altitude:

4360 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Dingboche

Day 6 | Trek from Dingboche (4,360m / 14,290ft) to Lobuche (4,930m / 16,175ft)

On this day, we will take a trail that leads us to a wide valley. The landscape around us becomes more and more barren with sparse vegetation. After trekking for a while, the trail ascends uphill near a ridge. En route, we will pass by an area with several memorial statues. These memorials are built in memory of the mountaineers who lost their lives during Mount Everest. The mountain view also becomes more clearer as we get closer to Lobuche. We must cross a glacial moraine to reach the Lobuche village finally. It will be our overnight stop for the day.

Flight Time:

5 hours

Distance:

8.5 km/ 5.2 miles

Altitude:

4930 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Lobuche

Day 7 | Trek from Lobuche (4,930m / 16,175ft) to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft) and back to Gorakshep (5,185m / 17,010ft)

An adventurous day awaits us as we ascend to Everest Base Camp. We will follow a trail alongside the glacial moraine. After trekking for a while, we will reach Gorak Shep. It will be our overnight stop, but for now, we will leave our luggage at a lodge here. Then, we will start our uphill ascension to Everest Base Camp.

The trail leading to the base camp is challenging as well as thrilling. En route, you will pass by the stunning Khumbu Glacier and also get to witness the gorgeous view of the Khumbu Icefall. Upon reaching the base camp, which sits at the foothills of the world’s highest mountain, Everest, an awe-inspiring scenery awaits you. It is the closest you will get without climbing Everest. You will get to spend some time at the base camp before heading back to Gorak Shep.

Flight Time:

6 - 8 hours

Distance:

15 km/ 9.32 miles

Altitude:

5364 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Gorakshep

Day 8 | Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m / 18,208ft) Viewpoint, trek to Gorakshep, then to Chhukung (4,730m /15,518ft)

Our day begins early today, and we will start before dawn. We will climb uphill to the famous vantage point, Kala Patthar, to watch the gorgeous sunrise and the surrounding Himalayas. The trail leading to Kala Patthar is demanding, and we must climb uphill on rugged terrain. However, the view is worth the challenge. We will get to watch the golden sunrise amidst the towering peaks of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other surrounding peaks. After watching the sunrise, we will descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast. It takes around 3-4 hours to travel to Kala Pathhar and return to Gorak Shep.

After breakfast at Gorak Shep, we will begin our trek to Chhukung. We will retrace our steps back to Lobuche and then take a trail on the east. En route, we will cross the Kongma La Pass (4910 m) to reach Chhukung. It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Lobuche and 2.5 to 4 hours to reach Kongma La Pass. Moreover, we will need to trek a further 4-5 hours to reach Chhukung from Kongma La Pass.

Flight Time:

8-10 hours

Distance:

9.5 km/ 5.9 miles

Altitude:

5555 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Chhukung

Day 9 | Rest day to relax and acclimatize at Chhukung

We will take another acclimatization day at Chhukung today. Since we will be climbing the Island Peak in a few days, our Sherpa guide will take this time to train us. Your guide will train you to use your climbing gear, such as ice axes, rope, tying knots, crampons, harnesses, and many more. Similarly, your guide will provide valuable knowledge on Island Peak. They will also motivate you and boost your confidence for the journey ahead. You will also have time to explore around the village.

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Chhukung

Day 10 | Trek from Chhukung (4,730m / 15,518ft) to Island Peak Base Camp (5000m / 16,690ft)

With adequate acclimatization and preparation, we will leave Chhukung and continue our trek. We will take a trail along the left bank of the Imja Khola. It goes past pastures and barren landscapes with no permanent settlements. The trail gradually ascends southwards along the moraine from the Lhotse Glacier. Similarly, we must also trek past the side of rock blocks.

After a 40-minute uphill climb, we will finally reach the Island Peak Base Camp. As there is no lodging in the area, we will stay overnight in a tent. Our guide will once again provide short training on climbing peaks and using mountaineering gear.

Flight Time:

4 hours

Distance:

5 km/ 3.1 miles

Altitude:

5000 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Island Peak Base Camp

Day 11 | Summit Island Peak (6189m / 20305ft ) return to Chhukung (4,730m /15,518ft)

Today is finally the day we will climb to the summit of the Island Peak. We will begin early in the morning so that we can reach before noon. It helps to avoid the high wind that can make our climb even more challenging. The Island Peak, also known as Imja Ts,e is a famous trekking peak.

You must ascend on a rocky ridge following your Sherpa guide. You will use a rope to climb uphill and continue trekking up a glacier to the south ridge. En route, you will cross crevasses on ladders. You will follow the ridge and climb your way to Island Peak’s summit. Upon reaching the summit, you will witness the marvelous view of Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, and other surrounding Himalayas. After conquering the summit, we will begin our downhill descent. We will climb downhill via the Island Peak Base Camp and retrace our steps to Chhukung village.

Flight Time:

10 - 11 hours

Distance:

11 km/ 6.8 miles

Altitude:

6189 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Chhukung

Day 12 | Contingency Day

This day is set as a contingency or extra day in case we cannot summit the Island Peak as planned the previous day. Sudden weather changes can sometimes delay the climb. If everything goes as planned, we will use this day to relax and enjoy the surrounding views.

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Day 13 | Trek from Chhukung (4,730m /15,518ft) to Tengboche (3,870m / 12,304ft)

After our breakfast at Chhukung, we will continue our descent downhill. As the trail gradually goes downhill, the barren landscape slowly starts to become green again. We will trek through the alpine meadow and several Sherpa villages to reach Tengboche. On this day, we will rest overnight in a lodge in the village. You can also explore the village and enjoy panoramic mountain views.

Flight Time:

6 hours

Distance:

12.9 km/ 8 miles

Altitude:

4730 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Tengboche

Day 14 | Trek from Tengboche (3,870m / 12,304ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,441m / 11,285ft)

After breakfast at Tengboche, we will continue descending to Namche Bazaar. We will trek on the familiar trail, descending through dense subtropical forests and alpine meadows. Similarly, we will make steep descends, passing by colorful prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls. You can explore Namche and its charming restaurants, cafes, and pubs in the evening.

Flight Time:

6 hours

Distance:

5.9 km/ 3.6 miles

Altitude:

3870 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Namche Bazaar

Day 15 | Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,441m / 11,285ft) to Lukla (2850m / 9,350ft)

Today is our final trekking day. We will trek again alongside the Dudh Koshi River bank. Similarly, we will exit the Sagarmatha National Park area. En route, we will trek past Monjo, Jorsale, Phakding, Toktok, and Chaurikharka Village villages. We will cross the Kusum stream and climb gently to Lukla. Finally, we will reach Lukla, where we will rest overnight.

Flight Time:

6 hours

Distance:

13.5 km/ 8.3 miles

Altitude:

3441 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Lukla

Day 16 | Fly back to Kathmandu/Manthali from Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft)

After breakfast, we will take an early flight. You can fly to Kathmandu or Manthali Airport, Ramechhap. If you fly to Ramechhap, you will take a 5-hour drive back to Kathmandu. Upon reaching Kathmandu, our trek package will end. We hope you had a wonderful adventure with us. Have a safe flight home!

Altitude:

1324 m

Meals:

B

Place:

Kathmandu

Best Time for Island Peak Climb

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the peak and ideal season for Island Peak Climbing with the Everest Base Camp Trek. It has the most favorable and stable weather with mild temperatures. The daytime temperature ranges around 25°C. However, the nighttime temperature in higher regions can drop below -10°C. There can be slight rainfall in early autumn, but it quickly ceases. As a result, the trails are dry and in perfect condition for trekking. The perfect weather and comfortable temperature make for perfect trekking conditions.

During autumn, the sky is clear with brilliant visibility. Moreover, the autumn foliage adds to the beauty of the stunning Everest landscapes. It is the best time to witness the crystal-clear views of the towering mountain vistas. The festive atmosphere further enhances the trekking experience. Some of the biggest festivals fall in autumn, such as Dashain, Tihar, Mani Rimdu, Dumji Festival, and Yartung Festivals. All these factors contribute to making autumn the best time for the trek.

Spring (March to May)

The next best trekking season in Nepal and ideal for Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek is spring. The bright, sunny, and clear weather makes the season best for trekking. In early spring, there can be light snowfall at higher altitudes and trails can be icy. However, the days become warmer, and the snow melts as the season progresses. The daytime temperature can reach up to 20°C. Similarly, the nighttime temperature can drop to -5°C.

As the temperature gradually warms up, the flora and fauna also become more active in spring. Hence, the rhododendron-adorned trekking trails of the Everest region bloom in different shades of red, pink, and white. Other varieties of colorful wildflowers, magnolias, orchids, etc., also bloom, coloring the entire landscape. There are also more likely chances that you may spot wildlives, including rare animals like red pandas, Himalayan Tahr, musk deers, etc.

Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek Difficulty

The Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek is one of the most strenuous ventures in the Everest region. The Alpine Grading System has graded Island Peak as 2B difficulty, which means that trekkers will require basic mountaineering skills. There is no need for technical skills, and beginners can join the trek. However, trekkers must have reasonable health and fitness to overcome the challenges. They must also prepare physically and mentally for the venture.

One of the first difficulties of the trek is the long trek duration and trekking hours. The trek is 16 days long, but depending on the trekker’s fitness, it can take longer. Similarly, the average trekking hours per day are 4 to 6 hours. Depending on the day’s destination, you may have to trek for 7 to 8 hours. The trails are also demanding, with steep ascent and descent sections. The terrain is also irregular, rough, and rocky. Moving to higher altitudes, you must trek on icy trails and cross glacier moraines. The trail leading to the summit of Island Peak requires careful navigation of icy landscapes, crevasses, narrow paths, and dangerous drops. Thus, trekkers must hire an experienced guide for the journey.

Another difficulty of the Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek is the high altitude. You will climb up to an altitude of 6189 meters above sea level. Therefore, there is a high risk of altitude sickness during the journey. Trekkers can experience mild to severe symptoms of altitude-related sickness, which can hinder their trek progress. It can even turn fatal if the severe symptoms are not given immediate medical attention. The rapidly changing weather also makes the trek further challenging.

All trekkers must make adequate preparations to overcome these challenges. They will also require adequate clothing, equipment, and gear for the Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek.

Required permits for EBC Trek with Island Peak Climb

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

Trekkers will need a local area permit known as the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit for the Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek. During the trek, you will enter the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. Hence, you must obtain a permit to access the Everest region. You can obtain the permit through your trekking agency or upon arrival in Lukla.

The cost of the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit is as follows:

Nationality Permit Cost (per person)
SAARC and Non-SAARC residents NPR 2000 (approximately USD 20)

 

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

The entire trekking trail of the Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek lies within the Sagarmatha National Park. It is one of the country’s most protected areas and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Diverse flora and fauna, including rare biodiversity, inhabit the national park. Therefore, trekkers must obtain a Sagarmatha National Park Permit to access the trekking trails from Monjo.

The costs of the Sagarmatha National Park Permit are as follows:

Nationality Permit Cost (per person)
SAARC Residents NPR 1500 (approximately USD 15)
Non-SAARC Residents NPR 3000 (approximately USD 30)

Island Peak Climbing Permit

Finally, trekkers must also obtain an Island Peak Climbing Permit issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). It is a mandatory permit for climbing Island Peak’s summit.

The costs of an Island Peak Climbing Permit vary depending on the season, which is as follows:

Season Permit Cost (per person)
Spring (March to May) USD 250
Summer (June to August) USD 70
Autumn (September to November) USD 125
Winter (December to February) USD 70

Food and Accommodation Options

While on 16 Days Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek, you will stay in charming teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses. These are the standard accommodations available along the route. Due to the remoteness of the region, there is a lack of proper infrastructure in the area. Thus, you will not find any fancy or luxurious hotels. There are a few well-facilitated hotels in Namche Bazaar, but they are very expensive.

Almost all the accommodations in the region are run by locals. These accommodations usually have shared rooms with communal bathrooms. Likewise, they have a common dining space with a massive heating stove in the middle. The accommodations provide their guests with beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows. The rooms have limited furniture and may not be well-insulated. You will stay in a tent overnight at Island Peak Base. So, you must carry a 4-season sleeping bag for the trek.

During the Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek, you will get to try various Nepalese dishes as well as international cuisines. The different meal options you will find include Dal Bhat (a staple Nepalese dish that consists of rice, lentil soup, curry, and pickles), Tibetan bread, roti/ chapati, curries, momo (dumplings), chow mein, thukpa, Sherpa stew, sandwiches, pasta, porridge, soups, etc. You will also find various drink options such as tea (black/ milk/ green), coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks, and alcoholic drinks. It is best to avoid dairy products, caffeine, and alcoholic beverages during high-altitude treks

FAQs For Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek

FAQs FOR Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek

Why Book With Us

HCTreks, a trusted name in Nepal’s tourism, offers unforgettable Himalayan adventures with expert guidance and 24/7 support. From Everest treks to hidden trails like Upper Dolpo, we ensure your journey is seamless and memorable.

Expert Travel Guides

Himalayan Challenge Treks believes no journey will be safe and smooth without a good travel team. Thus, we are proud of our expert travel guides, who make our clients' expeditions remarkable. Likewise, our guides are highly experienced, government-licensed, and trained in first aid and emergency responses.  Trekking with HC's guide is like walking with a companion who ensures your safety and makes a journey memorable and extraordinary.

Safety First

The Himalayan Challenge trek ensures that your safety is our top priority. When you made a booking with us, you became our family member. And we won't let our family be in any trouble. Thus, from the beginning of the trek to the time you fly to your home country, we'll take care of every detail and get in touch with you. Similarly, our well-planned itinerary, acclimatization strategies, and emergency support ensure a smooth and safe trekking experience.

Customizable Trips

Himalayan Challenge Trek knows that even one coin's two sides are not the same, so how can two different clients be the same? Considering the fact that everyone is different and has unique preferences, we offer customizable trekking packages. This personalized option allows trekkers to tailor their itinerary to suit their preferences, fitness level, and time availability.

Eco-Friendly Tourism

Sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices set us apart from other trekking agencies. We don't just make you explore the Himalayas but also train you to protect nature for future generations. We take different steps to ensure that your journey in the mountains has a positive impact. For suitable and eco-friendly tourism, we follow a zero-waste approach to support local and organic products.

Competitive Price

HC Treks's top-notch service at a competitive price ensures that even tight-budget trekkers get the best value for their money. Likewise, we maintain 100% transparency with no hidden costs. We arrange itineraries that maximize the trekking experience without unnecessary expenses, as everything required is included in the package. Further, we offer group discounts and assist trekkers with rental gear to help them reduce costs. 

Route Updates

We believe that staying updated on the weather and providing updates to trekkers are crucial for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Thus, we provide daily weather forecasts and route updates, ensuring trekkers are prepared ahead. For weather updates, our guide monitors official meteorological sources and local reports, ensuring a safe journey and no interruption due to changes in weather during the trek.