Island Peak Climbing

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Island Peak Climbing
  • Duration15 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate/Technical
  • Max Altitude 6165 M
  • Group Size 20
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
Island Peak Climbing Highlights
  • The Island Peak sits at an altitude of 6189m in the famous Khumbu region.
  • Amazing, the mountain views from Island Peak Summit.
  • View the wide areas of glaciers, and ice, and be face to face with mountain peaks.
  • Gain the necessary experience in a real mountain climbing environment.
  • The extremely unique adventure and experience of camping which is at Island Peak Base camp.
  • Safe and healthy food. 

Island Peak Climbing Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of the Himalayas with our meticulously crafted Island Peak (Imja Tse) climbing expedition, which offers the perfect blend of challenging mountain climbing and breathtaking Himalayan views. Moreover, this 15-day climbing and trekking journey takes you from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to one of Nepal's most achievable six-thousand-metre summits.

Whether you're a seasoned trekker looking for your first trekking peaks in Nepal or an experienced climber seeking stunning Everest Base Camp trek region views, the Island Peak climbing itinerary delivers an unforgettable peak climbing adventure from Chhukung. Furthermore, you'll walk alongside legendary Sherpa climbing guides, acclimatize properly in charming mountain villages, and ultimately summit Island Peak with unparalleled views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

Why Choose Island Peak Climbing in Nepal?

Island Peak is classified as a trekking peak that sits perfectly positioned in the heart of the Khumbu region, making it an ideal stepping stone to higher Himalayan peaks like Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse. The name Island Peak was given by British explorer Eric Shipton, who earned the mountain its name due to its resemblance to an island in a sea of ice – truly like an island – visible from Dingboche.

Unmatched Views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Makalu

From the summit of Island Peak, you'll experience breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks in a 360-degree panorama. Mount Everest dominates the northern horizon, while Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam create a stunning backdrop. These spectacular mountain views alone make the challenging ascent of Island Peak a truly rewarding climbing experience in Nepal, offering adventurers the chance to see some of the world's highest peaks up close.

Perfect Training Ground for Everest and Beyond

Although it provides an incredible training ground for climbers preparing for Everest or other eight-thousand-meter peaks, it stands as an incredible achievement in its own right. The technical climbing skills are required, including glacier travel, steep snow slopes, and fixed rope sections, providing essential mountaineering experience without the extreme commitment required for higher peaks like Mount Everest or Mount K2.

Climbing with Expert Guides

Climbing the Island Peak with Nepal Everest Base Camp Co. means you're guided by experienced climbing Sherpa guides who are intimately familiar with the mountain's terrain. Having summited Island Peak multiple times, our guides know every crevasse, weather pattern, and safe route from base camp and high camp, ensuring that your ascent is both safe and successful.

Essential Mountaineering Skills

While climbing Island Peak requires climbers to have basic mountaineering skills, you'll need to use climbing gear such as crampons, ice axes, and ropes during your summit push. With proper preparation and the support of our expert guides, climbers with good fitness and some experience in high-altitude climbing can successfully reach the summit of Island Peak.

Ready to book your Island Peak trekking trip? Contact us today for personalised costs and a detailed itinerary for 2025 and 2026. We'll guide you through every aspect of your journey, ensuring you're fully prepared for the climb of a lifetime.

Island Peak Climbing Itinerary

Outline Itinerary
  • Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m / 4,429 ft)
  • Day 02:Fly to Lukla & Trek to Phakding (2,800 m / 9,186 ft)
  • Day 03:Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)
  • Day 04:Acclimatisation Day in Namche Bazaar
  • Day 05:Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860 m / 12,664 ft)
  • Day 06:Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m / 14,300 ft)
  • Day 07:Acclimatisation Day in Dingboche
  • Day 08:Dingboche to Chhukung & preparation day for Summit Push (4,730m / 15,518 ft)
  • Day 09:Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200 m / 17,060 ft)
  • Day 10:Island Peak Summit Day (6,189 m / 20,305 ft)
  • Day 11:Chhukung to Tengboche (3,870m / 12,697ft)
  • Day 12:Tengboche to Namche Bazaar (3,438m / 11,280 ft)
  • Day 13:Day 13: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m / 9,187ft)
  • Day 14:Day 14: Fly to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,429ft)
  • Day 15:Day 15: Final Departure

Your Island Peak climbing expedition begins the moment you land in Kathmandu. Subsequently, we'll collect you from Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu's vibrant trekking district.

During the evening, you'll meet your climbing guide for a comprehensive briefing about the climb ahead. Additionally, we'll conduct a climbing equipment check, ensuring you have all necessary gear or arranging rentals for missing items.

Kathmandu Valley View
Kathmandu Valley View

 

  • Accommodation:Hotel in Thamel
  • Max Altitude:1320 M
  • Time:30 Min Drive to Hotel

The adventure truly begins with the scenic flight to Lukla, often called the world's most adventurous airport. Therefore, the 35-minute flight offers spectacular mountain views and gets your heart racing before you even start walking.

From Lukla, our journey begins as we make our way into the Everest region, following the Dudh Koshi River valley. Meanwhile, the trail starts with a gentle descent, winding through small Sherpa villages and crossing numerous suspension bridges along the way.

Consequently, Phakding sits beside the rushing river, providing a gentle introduction to mountain life.

  • Altitude Loss: 250 m / 820 ft from Lukla to Phakding
Lukla Airport
Lukla Airport

 

  • Accommodation:Lodge/Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:2,800m / 9,187ft
  • Time:30 min Fly and 3-4 hours Trek

Today brings the famous climb to Namche Bazaar, gateway to the Everest region. Subsequently, we'll cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge and begin the steep ascent through pine forests and rhododendron groves.

The climb to Namche is challenging but rewarding. Therefore, as you round the final corner, the first views of Everest appear, providing motivation for the final push. Furthermore, Namche Bazaar itself is a fascinating mountain town, complete with shops, bakeries, and internet cafes.

  • Altitude gain: 830 m / 2,723 ft
    Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Gate
    Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Gate

     

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:3,440 m / 11,286 ft
  • Time:5-6 Hours Trek

Rest day doesn't mean sitting still at altitude. Therefore, today's acclimatisation hike takes you to the famous Everest View Hotel, perched at 3,880 metres. Meanwhile, the trail winds through beautiful forests and offers stunning views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

We'll also visit the Sherpa Cultural Museum and the weekly market (if it's Saturday). Consequently, these activities help your body adjust to the thinner air whilst keeping you active and engaged. This extra day ensures proper acclimatization for the higher altitudes ahead.

  • Activities: Day hike to Everest View Hotel
    Everest View Hotel
    Everest View Hotel

     

  • Accommodation:Teahouses
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:3,880m/12720 ft
  • Time:2-3 hours hike

The trail to Tengboche is considered one of the most beautiful in the Himalayas. Therefore, we'll traverse through rhododendron forests, cross the Dudh Koshi River, and climb steadily to the famous Tengboche Monastery.

The monastery sits on a ridge surrounded by towering peaks. Additionally, if you time it right, you can witness the evening prayers, a deeply moving experience that connects you with the spiritual side of the mountains.

  • Altitude gain: 420 m / 1,378 ft
    View of Mt Amadablam
    View of Mt. Amadablam

     

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:3,860 m / 12,664 ft
  • Time:5-6 hours Trek

Leaving Tengboche, we descend through birch and rhododendron forests before crossing the Imja Khola River. Subsequently, the valley opens up as we approach Dingboche, revealing spectacular views of Lhotse and Ama Dablam.

Dingboche is a picturesque village surrounded by stone walls that protect barley fields from the harsh mountain winds. Furthermore, the village offers stunning sunset views and marks another important step in your acclimatization journey.

  • Altitude gain: 500 m / 1,640 ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:4360 M/14305
  • Time:5-6 hours walk

Another crucial acclimatisation day includes a hike to Nagarjun Hill, which offers panoramic views of Makalu and Lhotse. Therefore, this extra day helps your body adjust to the thin air whilst providing excellent views of your climbing objective.

The afternoon is perfect for rest, gear organisation, and mental preparation for the higher altitudes ahead. Meanwhile, many climbers find this day particularly enjoyable as they start to feel more comfortable at altitude.

  • Activities: Hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m)
    Dingboche Valley
    Dingboche Valley

     

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:5,100m/16732 ft
  • Time:3-4 hours Hike

The short trek to Chhukung follows the Imja Khola valley, passing through alpine meadows and yak pastures. The village sits in a dramatic cirque, surrounded by towering peaks like Lhotse and Ama Dablam. Chhukung marks the end of regular teahouse accommodation and the beginning of the more remote sections of your climbing journey. The village offers stunning views of Island Peak, allowing you to study the climbing route in preparation for your upcoming peak climbing.

Today is dedicated to final preparations for your summit attempt. We’ll conduct a comprehensive climbing permit check with the Nepal Mountaineering Association, practice using crampons and ice axes, and review the climbing techniques necessary for summit day. Your climbing guide will also go over the summit day timeline, weather conditions, and emergency procedures. For those who need to rent climbing gear, this is the ideal time to finalise equipment arrangements. This preparation day is crucial in increasing your chances of summit success and ensuring you’re confident with the technical aspects of climbing this peak.

  • Altitude gain: 320 m / 1,049 ft
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:4,730m / 15,518 ft
  • Time:3-4 hours Trek

The trek to Island Base Camp takes you across glacial moraines and rocky terrain. Meanwhile, the trail becomes more challenging as you gain altitude, but the excitement of reaching the Island Peak base camp keeps spirits elevated.

Base camp sits on a flat area surrounded by dramatic ice formations and towering peaks. Subsequently, we'll set up camp, prepare equipment for the summit push, and enjoy an early dinner before tomorrow's pre-dawn start. Per the itinerary, this marks the beginning of the technical climbing phase.

  • Altitude gain: 470 m / 1,540 ft
    Island Peak Base Camp
    Island Peak Base Camp

     

  • Accommodation:Tented Camp
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:5,200 m / 17,060 ft
  • Time:4-5 hours Trek

Summit day begins around 2 AM with a light breakfast and final gear check. Therefore, we'll move from the base of Island Peak towards high camp positions, initially following a rocky ridge before transitioning to snow and ice. Subsequently, you'll navigate crevasses, climb fixed ropes, and tackle a steep headwall before reaching the summit of Island Peak.

The final push requires stamina and determination, but the views from the summit are absolutely spectacular. Furthermore, you'll see Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and dozens of other peaks stretching to the horizon as you achieve your summit goal. Island Peak is suitable for those who have prepared adequately and possess the necessary fitness levels.

After celebrating on the summit and taking photographs, we'll begin the long descent back to Chhukung, where warm meals and comfortable beds await your climbing team. The Island Peak climb via this route provides an unforgettable experience.

  • Altitude gain: 1,102 m / 3,615 ft
  • Altitude loss: 989 m / 3,245 ft
    Summit to Island Peak
    Summit to Island Peak

     

  • Accommodation:Teahouses
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:5200 M/17061 M
  • Time:9-11 hours walk

From Island Base Camp, we begin our descent to Pangboche, following the familiar trail back through rocky moraines and alpine meadows. Therefore, this easier trek allows you to appreciate the incredible climbing adventure you've completed whilst enjoying the richer air at lower altitudes.

The descent brings a sense of accomplishment as you reflect on your summit achievement. Meanwhile, Pangboche village offers a warm welcome with its ancient monastery and stunning mountain views.

  • Altitude Loss: 860 m / 2,823 ft
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:6189m/20,306ft
  • Time:5-6 Hours Trek

Duration: 4-5 hours | Accommodation: Teahouse | Meals: All meals | Altitude Loss: 432 m / 1,417 ft

After a restful night in Pangboche, we continue our descent back to Namche Bazaar, retracing our steps through familiar Sherpa villages. Therefore, the trail takes you through Tengboche, where you might revisit the monastery, and down through the rhododendron forests.

The return to Namche feels like coming home after your high-altitude adventure. Furthermore, the bustling mountain town offers hot showers, internet cafes, and bakeries – luxuries that feel extraordinary after your time in the mountains.

  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:3,985m/13,075ft
  • Time:5-6 Hours walk

Duration: 6-7 hours | Accommodation: Teahouse | Meals: All meals | Altitude Loss: 640 m / 2,100 ft

Our final trekking day brings us back to Lukla, completing the circle of your incredible mountain journey. Therefore, the trail descends through pine forests and crosses the familiar suspension bridges that marked your first days in the mountains.

Take time to reflect on your journey and personal achievement as you walk. Meanwhile, the lower altitude makes this final day feel almost effortless compared to your summit push.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max Altitude:3,438m/11,280ft
  • Time:6-7 Hours Trek

Today brings the scenic flight back to Kathmandu or Ramechap, marking the end of your mountain adventure. Therefore, the 35-minute flight offers one final opportunity to see the peaks you've conquered from the air.

Subsequently, we'll transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, where hot showers, comfortable beds, and restaurants await. Meanwhile, this is the perfect time to purchase souvenirs, upload photos, and share your achievement with friends and family.

  • Altitude Loss: 1,510 m / 4,954 ft

  • Ramechap: During the peak season, flights will divert to Ramechap. 

  • Accommodation:Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Max Altitude:2,800m / 9,187ft
  • Time:30 min fly or 15 min fly and drive.

Meals: Breakfast | Time:

Our airport representative will collect you from your hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure from Nepal. Therefore, this marks the official end of your peak climbing from the Chhukung package adventure.

  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Time:Drive to Airport

Island Peak Climbing Itinerary - 15Days of Adventure

This carefully crafted peak climbing from the Chhukung itinerary includes essential acclimatisation days, technical training, and buffer time for weather. Meanwhile, each day is designed to build your fitness and confidence whilst ensuring proper altitude adjustment for your Island Peak trekking trip.

Cost Details
What is Included
  • Airport Pickup and Drop: Transportation to and from the airport
  • Accommodation: Tent and teahouse stay during the trek

  • Conservation Permit: Required permits for trekking in National Park areas

  • Peak Climbing Royalty: Fees for climbing {Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) fees are included}

  • Hotel in Kathmandu: 2-night stay at a hotel on a Bed and Breakfast (BB) plan

  • Climbing/Trekking Guide and Porters: An experienced, licensed, English-speaking guide and necessary porters

  • Guide and Porter Expenses: Food, drinks, salary, insurance, equipment, transportation, accommodation, and local taxes

  • First Aid Kit: Essential medical supplies for the trek

  • Transportation: Includes transportation by bus, car, or flight as required

  • Climbing Equipment: Group climbing equipment (ropes, anchors, snow bars)

  • Road Transportation: All necessary road transportation for the trek

  • Government Fees: All required government-related fees for permits and services

What is not Included
  • Personal Climbing Equipment: Any personal climbing gear you may need (available for rent) - this represents an additional cost

  • Meals in Kathmandu: Except for the welcome dinner

  • Travel Insurance: Highly recommended but not included

  • Extra Night Accommodation: In case of delayed departure or early arrival, this is an extra cost

  • Personal Expenses: Any personal nature expenses

  • Nepal Visa Fees: Nepal entry visa (USD $40 for 30 days, USD $25 for 15 days)

  • Drinks: Any kind of drinks, including bar bills, water, tea, coffee, etc.

  • Tips and Donations: Not included, but appreciated

Add-Ons & Options

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Additional Nights in Kathmandu: Extra nights before or after the trek (Tourist Standard Hotel in Thamel)

  • Helicopter Return from Lukla: If you prefer a quicker return journey

  • Extra Porter Services: For carrying additional personal luggage

  • Extended Acclimatisation Days: Additional days for safer altitude adaptation

Good to Know

Island Peak Climbing Difficulty & Preparation

This climbing presents a moderate to challenging mountain climbing experience. Therefore, understanding the requirements and preparing accordingly will significantly increase your chances of success on this climbing peak.

Technical and Physical Requirements

The climb involves glacier travel, fixed rope sections, and steep snow slopes. Furthermore, you'll need to be comfortable using climbing boots, crampons, ice axes, and climbing harnesses. The technical sections aren't extremely difficult, but they require confidence and basic mountaineering skills.

Physical fitness is crucial for climbing a peak at this altitude. Additionally, you'll be walking for up to 14 hours on summit day at altitudes where oxygen levels are half those at sea level. Weather conditions can make climbing more challenging, so proper preparation is essential.

Acclimatisation Strategy

Our itinerary includes multiple acclimatisation days and follows the "climb high, sleep low" principle. Therefore, this approach allows your body to gradually adjust to the decreased oxygen levels, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

Essential Climbing Gear

Before attempting it, you should be familiar with basic mountaineering techniques. Meanwhile, we provide training during the expedition, but prior climbing experience with crampons, ice axes, and rope work is highly beneficial. Those who prepare for Island Peak trekking should invest in quality gear and training.

Exceptional Value with Full Climbing Support

Our peak climbing from the Chhukung cost package offers excellent value for a fully supported expedition. The cost of climbing includes everything from expert guidance to safety equipment and logistical support throughout your journey.

Investment in Safety

Safety is our priority. Your climbing cost covers emergency communication equipment, first aid supplies, and evacuation insurance to ensure peace of mind throughout your climb. The trip cost reflects our commitment to providing comprehensive safety measures.

Value for Money

Compared to organising the climb independently, our package saves you time and stress, handling all logistical arrangements, including climbing permit processing through the Nepal Mountaineering Association. The cost of the package includes all essential services for a successful expedition.

Best Time to Climb Island Peak

The optimal peak trekking seasons are spring and autumn, offering stable weather and clear mountain views. Time for climbing is crucial, as the region experiences distinct seasonal patterns.

Spring (March-May) provides warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, while autumn (September-November) offers crystal-clear views and stable weather conditions. However, some experienced climbers still attempt it in winter, despite the significantly increased challenges.

Similar Pass Treks and Expeditions in Nepal

Mera Peak Climbing

At 6,476 metres, Mera Peak offers a slightly higher but less technical alternative to Island Peak. Therefore, the climb provides excellent training for higher peaks and spectacular views of five eight-thousand-metre peaks.

Lobuche Peak Climbing

Lobuche Peak is a challenging climbing peak in Nepal that combines perfectly with the Everest Base Camp trek. Meanwhile, the technical climbing sections are similar to Island Peak, but the approach follows the classic route to Everest Base Camp.

Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Climb

If you’re dreaming of the ultimate Himalayan adventure, this one’s got your name on it. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime experience - but adding the Island Peak climb? That takes it to a whole new level. You’ll hike the legendary EBC trail, soak in the mountain culture, and then gear up for a thrilling summit at over 6,000 meters. It’s the perfect blend of scenic trekking and real-deal mountaineering - an adventure you’ll never forget.

Book and Customise Your Island Peak Climb Today!

Per the Island Peak climbing experience, this adventure represents the ultimate blend of challenge and reward, set in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. With expert guides leading you safely to the summit, you'll create lasting memories as you conquer one of Nepal's most iconic peaks.

At Nepal Everest Base Camp Co., we understand every climber's journey is unique. Whether you're looking for a tailored climbing itinerary from Chhukung with an extra day for acclimatisation or additional peaks to conquer, we customise every aspect to suit your needs

Ready for the challenge? Our 15-day Island Peak climbing itinerary includes all permits, logistics, and expert guidance. Discover why climbers choose this Nepal trekking peak as their first real mountaineering goal. Get your personalised Island Peak cost estimate now and make 2025 the year you summit.

Your goal is simple - to climb with confidence, enjoy the journey, and feel safe every step of the way. And our goal? To make that happen.

Why Choose Us?

We handle everything – from climbing permit processing to logistics, ensuring a seamless experience. Our expert guides are trained in wilderness first aid and high camp rescue techniques, putting your safety first. Island Peak's challenging terrain requires experienced guidance.

Ready for your peak climbing trip from Chhukung? Summit Island Peak today by contacting us to book or schedule your climbing adventure. Don't miss out – secure your spot and embark on the ultimate Himalayan adventure with Nepal Everest Base Camp Co.!

Island Peak Climbing FAQs

  • This climbing journey is moderately to highly demanding, requiring good cardio fitness and basic mountaineering skills. You’ll cross glaciers, negotiate crevasses, and tackle steep snow slopes with crampons and an ice axe.

  • Pack insulated climbing boots, crampons, an ice axe, a harness, a helmet, and layered cold-weather clothing. We send a full gear checklist after booking and offer rentals for any technical kit you’re missing. 

  • Success hinges on fitness, weather, and thorough preparation, with rates averaging 60% to 85%. Our Island Peak expedition itinerary builds in acclimatisation days and expert guidance to boost your odds while keeping you safe.

  • Spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov) deliver the most stable weather and clear views. Booking early for these peak trekking seasons secures permits and spots without affecting the climb’s base cost.

  • You need basic mountaineering know-how and solid fitness, not elite climbing credentials. Our guides refresh essential rope-work skills on the trail, so determination matters more than experience.

  • Yes, all mandatory permits and government fees are covered in the package price. Only personal gear rentals and optional add-ons (e.g., porter upgrades) cost extra.

  • Island Peak is more technical – with ropes, steep headwalls, and crevasse crossings. Lobuche Peak is more about endurance – higher altitude and a longer summit day. Choose Island Peak if you’re into rope work and technical climbs. Go for Lobuche if you prefer a stamina-driven, high-altitude challenge.

  • You’ll arrive at Island Peak Base Camp on Day 9 of our 15-day itinerary. The route includes acclimatisation stops in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to prep you for the climb. This gradual approach ensures proper altitude adjustment before attempting the technical climbing sections of your Island Peak expedition.

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