Trip Fact

Destination

Everest

Duration

15 Days

Difficulty

Moderate

Group Size

2-16 Persons

Max altitude

6189m

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Activities

Trekking/Climbing

Accommodation

Teahouse

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

Private Vehicle and Flight

Start from

Kathmandu

End at

Kathmandu

Island Peak Climbing overview

Island Peak, locally known as Imja Tse, is one of the most iconic trekking peaks in the eastern Himalayas. Rising to 6,189m (20,305ft), this striking peak resembles an island in a sea of snow and forms an extension of the south ridge of Lhotse Shar. With its breathtaking beauty, semi-technical climbing slopes, and spectacular summit views, Island Peak Climbing is among the most thrilling mountaineering adventures in Nepal.

Island Peak also holds historical significance — it was used by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay for oxygen apparatus practice before their successful first ascent of Mount Everest in 1953.

Whether you are a beginner climber seeking to sharpen your skills, an experienced mountaineer craving a new challenge, or an adventurer dreaming of a Himalayan summit, Island Peak Climbing offers the perfect balance of culture, trekking, and alpine climbing.

Island Peak Climbing highlights

  • Summit one of Nepal’s most popular trekking peaks (6,189m).
  • Semi-technical climbing slopes for a true mountaineering experience.
  • Walk along the legendary Everest Base Camp trekking route.
  • Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Baruntse, and Nuptse.
  • Explore Sherpa culture, monasteries, and unique Himalayan traditions.
  • Traverse Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Combination of trekking, acclimatization, and alpine climbing adventure.

Island Peak Climbing itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in central Kathmandu. After check-in, you may rest or explore nearby sites depending on your arrival time. In the evening, enjoy a traditional welcome dinner where you will meet your guide and team members. Overnight at hotel.

Spend the day exploring the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. This is also a preparation day for your climb — buy or rent gear, finalize permits, and get a detailed briefing. Overnight at hotel.

Take a scenic 40-minute flight to Lukla, enjoying breathtaking mountain views. After landing, begin your trek with a gradual descent through Chaurikharka Village to the banks of the Dudh Koshi River. Continue past Dudhkoshi Ghat and finally reach Phakding.

  • Trek time: 4–5 hrs | Distance: 6.2km

Follow the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests, crossing several suspension bridges and passing Tok Tok and Bhenkar villages. Enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo and continue the steep climb to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital.

  • Trek time: 6–7 hrs | Distance: 9.4km

Rest and acclimatize in Namche. Take optional hikes to Syangboche Airstrip, Everest View Hotel, or the Sherpa villages of Khumjung and Khunde. Explore Namche’s vibrant market, museums, and monasteries. Overnight in Namche.

Ascend gradually through forests and villages before reaching Phunki Thenga. Then climb a steep trail to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery with panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse. If you arrive by afternoon, attend the daily puja ceremony.

  • Trek time: 5–6 hrs | Distance: 9.2km

Descend through forests and cross the Imja Khola. Continue via Pangboche, Orsho, and Somare before entering high-altitude terrain with fewer trees. Arrive at Dingboche, known as the “summer valley,” with stone-fenced fields protecting crops from harsh winds.

  • Trek time: 5–6 hrs | Distance: 9km

Head up the Imja Valley, passing Bibre and Chhukung Village — the last settlement before the peak. Continue along the southern flank of the Lhotse Glacier to reach Island Peak Base Camp.

  • Trek time: 4–5 hrs | Distance: 5km

Spend the day acclimatizing and preparing for the climb. Your guide will conduct a training session on rope techniques, ice axe use, and crampon walking. Take short hikes around the camp to adjust to altitude. Early rest for the summit push.

Begin the climb before dawn, ascending a rocky ridge to reach the glacier. Cross crevasses, climb ice slopes, and follow fixed ropes to the summit ridge. Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, and Ama Dablam. After celebrating at the summit, descend carefully back to Base Camp.

  • Climbing duration: 9–10 hrs

Descend through Chhukung and Bibre, following the Imja Khola valley back to Dingboche. Overnight in a teahouse.

  • Trek time: 4–5 hrs | Distance: 5km

Retrace your steps down the valley, passing Pangboche and Tengboche. Continue through lush forests and villages to reach Namche Bazaar. After many days in remote mountains, Namche will feel lively and welcoming.

  • Trek time: 6–7 hrs | Distance: 14.9km

Descend steeply from Namche and follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges and passing Monjo, Phakding, and small villages before the final climb back to Lukla.

  • Trek time: 5–6 hrs | Distance: 13.5km

Take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for shopping, relaxing, or exploring. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by Adventure Friendship.

Our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. We hope to see you again for more Himalayan adventures.

Are you interested in planning a custom trip with us? It’s quick, easy, and takes only 2 minutes.

What’s Included

  • Private airport transfers (arrival & departure).
  • 3 nights hotel stay in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Full-day Kathmandu sightseeing with guide, transport & entry fees.
  • Round-trip scenic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu).
  • Private ground transportation during the trip.
  • Island Peak Climbing Permit, Local Entry Permit & Sagarmatha National Park Permit.
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek & camping during the climb.
  • All meals during trek and climb (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
  • Experienced climbing & trekking guide (English-speaking).
  • Porters for luggage.
  • Group climbing gear (ropes, harnesses, etc.) & kitchen equipment during camping.
  • First aid kit & basic medicines.
  • Staff salary, insurance & logistics.
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
  • Certificate of successful climb completion.
  • Government taxes & official paperwork.

What’s Not Included

  • Personal climbing gear (boots, crampons, down jacket, etc.).
  • International airfare.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Personal travel insurance (mandatory).
  • Meals in Kathmandu (except itinerary inclusions).
  • Alcoholic beverages & personal expenses.
  • Tips for guides and porters.

Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!

Island Peak Climbing cost & dates

Travel Index
  • Guaranteed
  • Available
  • Limited
  • Sold Out
Departure Dates and Prices
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking
Start Date End Date Price Status Booking

Additional Information

Photos

Island Peak
Island Peak Climbing
Island Peak Summit

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is Island Peak Climbing?

Island Peak is a semi-technical trekking peak requiring basic mountaineering skills. With prior trekking experience and proper acclimatization, it is achievable for fit beginners as well as experienced climbers.

Do I need prior climbing experience?

Not necessarily. However, previous trekking experience above 4,000m is recommended. Basic knowledge of crampon use, ropes, and ice axe handling will be taught during training at base camp.

What is the best time for Island Peak Climbing?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for stable weather and clear mountain views.

How long is the Island Peak expedition?

Our standard itinerary takes 15 days, including acclimatization, trekking, summit climb, and return.

What permits are required?

You will need an Island Peak Climbing Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Permit, and a Local Area Permit, all arranged by us.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

Teahouses/lodges are used during the trek, and camping tents are provided at Island Peak Base Camp.

Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes. Your insurance must cover high-altitude trekking, climbing, and emergency helicopter evacuation.

What equipment do I need to bring?

You should bring personal gear such as boots, sleeping bag, crampons, ice axe, down jacket, and gloves. Group climbing gear is provided.

get help from our travel specialist for holiday ideas that match yout interest