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 6,165 m 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 (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 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!
Our journey starts early this morning. We take a scenic 30–40 minute flight from Kathmandu domestic airport. During peak seasons, the flight may depart from Ramechhap (Manthali) instead. The destination is the famous Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla. For the best views, try to sit on the left side of the plane.
You’ll see peaks like Gaurishankar, the Langtang range, the Dorje Lhakpa range, and the entire Everest range. You can even spot the Shishapangma range in China. The airlines used, such as Tara Air, Sita Air, and Summit Air, operate small, robust aircraft like the DHC-6 Twin Otter or Dornier Do 228. These planes are specially designed for the short runway at Lukla.
Upon landing, we usually do not start trekking immediately. We first meet with our entire trekking support team. Depending on the flight time, we will stop for breakfast or lunch. Following the meal, we hold a group meeting to discuss and plan our journey ahead. We then begin the trek from Lukla to Phakding (2,610 m). You’ll immediately begin to experience the local Buddhist way of life. Look for prayer flags, carved stones, monasteries, and Chorten (Stupa) monuments along the trail.
Flight Time:
40 min (Kathmandu–Lukla), 20 min (Manthali–Lukla)
Trek Time:
3 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
7.5 km (4.6 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,610 m (8,562 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Lunch, Dinner (L.D)
Place:
Phakding
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
7.4 km (4.5 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,440 m (11,286 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Namche Bazaar
Our essential rest day in Namche Bazaar starts early for mountain viewing. We will wake up at 6:00 AM and have breakfast by 6:30 AM. By 7:00–7:30 AM, we begin our crucial acclimatization hike. This is a 1.5 hour ascent to the Everest Viewpoint. From here, you will witness a beautiful panorama of major peaks. These includeEverest (8,848.86m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), Kangtega–The Snow Saddle (6,782m), Thamserku (6,608m), and Kusum Kanguru (6,367m).
Note that the sacred mountain of the Khumbu region, Khumbu Yui Lha, is worshipped by locals and remains closed to all climbers.After enjoying the views, we’ll trek to Khumjung village (3,790 m), which is famous for holding a Yeti skull. We then visit Khunde village, home to the region’s largest hospital. Along the way, we stop at the Syangboche Yak Farm and Breeding Center. Nearby is the small Syangboche Airport.
Returning to Namche, we visit the Sagarmatha National Park Museum. Here, you can learn about the ancient history of the Sherpa people and see a record of all Everest climbers. We will also visit Namche’s largest monastery (Gumba). If our stay is on a Friday or Saturday, we can explore the vibrant local farmers’ market.
Trek Time:
3–4 hrs/day (optional)
Trek Distance:
8 km (4.9 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,440 m (11,286 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Namche Bazaar
Today we leave Namche and head toward Tengboche. On the way, keep an eye out for wildlife. You might spot the beautiful Danphe, Nepal’s national bird, Himalayan tahr (wild goat), and the Himalayan Musk Deer. We’ll pass the village of Phortse (3,840 m), often called the “potato capital.” You’ll begin to see yaks carrying heavy loads on the paths. The trail eventually descends to Phunki Tenga (3,250m). This small settlement sits beside the Dudh Koshi River, which is a good place to stop for lunch and refill our water bottles before the main climb.
The trail then climbs to Tengboche (3,860 m). Our main destination here is the famous Tengboche Monastery. This is one of the largest monasteries in the Everest region. All the monks in this monastery are of Sherpa descent. The monastery offers one of the absolute best views of Ama Dablam. The structure has a resilient history; it has been rebuilt twice. It was reconstructed after a major earthquake in 1934 and again after a damaging fire in 1989.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
9.2 km (5.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,860 m (12,664 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Tengboche
We will continue our trek from Tengboche and head towards Dingboche. The trail gradually begins to ascend and takes us to Pangboche (3,985 m). 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 (4,410 m). 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.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
10.5 km (6.5 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
4,410 m (14,468 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Dingboche
Today, the path leads us from Dingboche towards Lobuche (4,940 m). The most challenging part of our day is the steep, zigzagging climb up the Thukla Pass (4,830 m). Once we reach the top of the pass, we will walk through the Thukla Pass memorial ground. This moving site honors climbers who lost their lives on Everest. After the climb, the trail becomes much easier, leveling out significantly. We then follow the side ridge of the massive Khumbu Glacier.
Lobuche itself is an important junction point in the high mountains. This is where trekkers on different routes meet. People attempting the Chola Pass (5,420 m), the Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), and those heading to Everest Base Camp all converge here. It is a busy and exciting location at a very high altitude, perfect for the night.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
8.5 km (5.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
4,940 m (16,207 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Lobuche
An adventurous day awaits us as we ascend to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). 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 (5,164 m).
Trek Time:
7–8 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
12.5 km–14 km (7.7 miles–9 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
5,164 m (16,942 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Gorakshep
Our day begins early today, and we will start before dawn. We will climb uphill to the famous vantage point, Kala Patthar (5,545 m), 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 hrs to travel to Kala Pathhar and return to Gorak Shep.
After breakfast at Gorak Shep, we will begin our trek to Chhukung (4,730 m). We will retrace our steps back to Lobuche and then take a trail to the east. En route, we will cross the Kongma La Pass (5,535 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 hrs to reach Chhukung from Kongma La Pass.
Trek Time:
10–12 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
14 km–15 km (8.6 miles–9.3 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
4,730 m (15,518 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
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.
Sleep Elevation:
4,730 m (15,518 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Chhukung
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 the rock blocks.
After a 40–minute uphill climb, we will finally reach the Island Peak Base Camp (5,087 m). 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.
Trek Time:
4 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
5 km (3.1 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
5,087 m (16,689 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Island Peak Base Camp
Today is finally the day we will climb to the summit of the Island Peak (6,165 m). 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.
Trek Time:
10–11 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
11 km (6.8 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
4,730 m (15,518 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Chhukung
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-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
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.
Trek Time:
6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
10 km (6.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,860 m (12,664 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Tengboche
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.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
9.2 km (5.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,440 m (11,286 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Namche Bazaar
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 (2,740 m), Phakding, Toktok (2,750 m), and Chaurikharka (2,600 m) Village villages. We will cross the Kusum stream and climb gently to Lukla (2,860 m). Finally, we will reach Lukla, where we will rest overnight.
Trek Time:
8–9 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
14.9 km (9.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,860 m 9,383 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Lukla
After breakfast, we will take an early flight. You can fly to Kathmandu or Manthali Airport, Ramechhap (474 m). If you fly to Ramechhap, you will take a 5-hour drive back to Kathmandu. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will drop you off at your hotel. This way, our trek package will come to an end. We hope you had a wonderful adventure with us. Have a safe flight home!
Flight Time:
40 min (Lukla–Ktm), 20 min (Lukla–Manthali)
Sleep Elevation:
1,400 m (4,593 ft)
Accommodations:
Not Included
Meals:
Breakfast, Farewell Dinner (B.D)
Place:
Kathmandu
To respect the varied accommodation preferences of our guests, the Kathmandu stay has been kept optional, so you can freely choose a hotel that best suits your comfort and budget. However, if you would like us to arrange your accommodation, we would be more than happy to assist. Let us know your preference (3-star, 4-star, or 5-star) at the time of booking, and we will include it as an add-on without any hassle
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 6165 m 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.
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) |
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) |
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 |
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.
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.
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
The visa can be obtained on arrival in Kathmandu, and we will assist you with the process. A 30–day visa is recommended for the 16 day trek to cover travel and possible delays. Costs are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. You also need a passport valid for six months and a passport-sized photo.
A certified climbing guide provides safety, manages permits, and provides technical support on glaciers and ropes. Guides are trained in high-altitude first aid and managing altitude sickness. Porters carry 15–20 kg of luggage, which helps to reduce fatigue and help you conserve energy for the summit push.
On the Island Peak with EBC, baggage is limited to 15 kg (33 lbs) per person due to the Lukla flight and porter capacity. You can carry 10 kg in your main duffel bag and 5 kg in a daypack. Exceeding this limit may lead to extra fees or delayed luggage. Sticking to the weight limit offers a smoother start and safer travel in the mountains.
Flights to Lukla for the Everest region trek are often delayed or canceled due to unpredictable mountain weather. Lukla Airport requires clear visibility, so fog, clouds, or strong winds can ground flights at any time. Up to 50% of flights may be affected during the monsoon or winter. It is great to add one or two buffer days to your itinerary to avoid missing international connections.
HCTreks offers unforgettable Himalayan adventures with expert guidance and 24/7 support.
Experienced, licensed guides ensuring safety and memorable journeys.
Your safety is our top priority throughout the journey.
Tailor your trek based on preferences, fitness, and time.
We promote sustainable, zero-waste, eco-friendly trekking experiences.
Top-notch service at affordable, transparent, and competitive rates.
Receive daily weather forecasts and route updates for safety.
