Island Peak trek in Nepal, also known as Imja Tse, is a challenging trek, taking you to an altitude of 6179 m. Eric Shipton’s climbing team named it "Island Peak" in 1952 due to its remarkable location in the middle of the enchanting Chhukung valley - it reminded them of an island surrounded by a sea of ice.

The expedition starts out by following the route of the Everest Base Camp trek till Lobuche. You will arrive at Kathmandu, and take a flight to Lukla-one of the most dangerous airports in the world! From there, you will trek to Namche Bazar, and get a chance to visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, where many trekkers stop to pray for good health and a safe journey. The highlight of this part will be hiking to Kala Patthar, which gives a 360 degree view of all the major peaks of the region-Mt. Everest’s North face, Lhotse, Nuptse and also the Khumbu ice fields. This trek helps a lot in proper acclimatization. After this, you will continue to Chhukung and the Island Peak base camp.

The best time to go on the Island Peak Expedition is anytime between September to November and March to May, when temperatures and weather conditions are optimal for climbing. The climb is challenging, and becomes more so when you encounter the ice headwall. You will have to use crampons on the 120m vertical ascent which is at a slope of around 45 degrees.  There are fixed lines that make the climbing safe, however you need to be in great shape and mentally strong. However, the superb views of Ama Dablam, Lohtse and Mera peak from the pinnacle will be your reward for all the hard work.

You will be staying in tea houses for most of the trek, as well as tents and hostels at certain places and there will be ample time to get acclimated.  Climbing Island Peak will give you a high you will never forget!

ITINERARY

Day 1 : Arrive At Kathmandu

On arrival at Kathmandu, you will check in to a hostel. Relax for sometime and head out to explore the local market.

Day 2 : Kathmandu - Lukla - Phakding (30-35 min flight | 4 hrs trek | 2,610 m)

Wake up to a beautiful morning. You will be transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport to board a flight to Lukla (2,800 m). Enroute, you will be mesmerised with the beautiful terrain below you. You will be trekking to Phakding, for a stay overnight in one of the tea houses.    

Day 3 : Phakding - Namche Bazaar (10.4 km | 3-4 hrs | 3,440m)

Wake up to the beautiful sunrise. Today you will head out to the first suspension bridge of this trek. While hiking, you will see little tea-houses and shops, before the trail starts descending to the suspension bridge across Dudh Koshi River. Crossing this bridge would lead you to Namche Bazaar. Stay overnight at a tea house in Namche Bazaar.

Day 4 : Namche Bazaar - Khumjung for acclimatization - Namche Bazaar (7 km | 4-6 hrs | 3,790 m)

Wake up to the beautiful sunrise and get ready to trek to Khumjung, the beautiful village in Khumbu Valley which has one of the oldest and largest Sherpa settlements. Trekking to the  Khumbu region will also prepare you for acclimatization. In the evening, you will head back to Namche Bazaar where you will stay for overnight in your pre-booked tea-house.

Day 5 : Namche Bazaar - Tengboche Monastery (9 km | 3-4 hrs | 3,870 m)

Today you will proceed to Kyamjuma. The trail first descends slightly to Dudh Koshi at 3250 m. While hiking, keep your eyes on the majestic views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam and Thamserku. This trail is beautifully laden with rhododendron trees where you might even spot some Himalayan wildlife. A strenuous ascent will take you to the Tengboche monastery. Overnight stay in a tea house in Tengboche.

Day 6 : Tengboche Monastery to Pheriche (10-11 km| 3-4 hrs | 4,371 m)

Rise early to click pictures of the gilded skies and mountains. Later, you will embark on the trek to Pheriche. Initially you will go downhill, and then will climb upwards going through bushes and big rocks of mammoth size. You might get exhausted in upwards climb due to steepness, however only after a little while, you will again go downhill to Pheriche. On reaching, give rest to your body, have tea and explore the nearby surroundings. Later, spend your night in the pre-booked tea house.

Day 7 : Stay at Pheriche for acclimatization (4,371 m)

A popular stop for trekkers, Pheriche is situated at a height of 4,371 m above the Tsola River. This day is a rest day for the trekkers and also to acclimatize with the high-altitude. You will be able to view amazing view of Mt. Ama Dablam from your tea-house.

Day 8 : Pheriche - Lobuche (12 km | 4-5 hrs | 4,940 m)

In the morning, you begin the trek to Lobuche. On reaching, you will see marvellous views of Mt. Everest region. Overnight stay in tea-house.

Day 9 : Lobuche - Kala Patthar - Lobuche ( 8-9 km | 4-6 hrs | 5,643m)

Today morning, you will set out for a short hike to Kala Patthar. From the summit point, you will be able to see several of the highest summits in the world, including Mt. Everest. Later, make a short descent back to reach Lobuche.

Day 10 : Lobuche - Chhukung (8-10 hrs | 4,730m)

In the morning, you will begin the trek to Chhukung, the trail is a continuous ascent till you reach. On the way, you will see beautiful mountain views in and around the valley. Stay overnight in Chhukung.

Day 11 : Chhukung - Island Peak Base Camp (3-4 hrs | 5,200 m)

Today, you will trek to the base camp of Island Peak, set at an elevation of 5,200 m. The climb will slightly be difficult, so numerous breaks will be given to you to take a breath. On reaching, rest adequately as you will have to prepare for the summit next day. Overnight stay at camps.

Day 12 : Island Peak Base Camp - Island Peak Summit - Island Peak Base Camp (10-12 hrs | 6,179 m)

Today, get up early to summit the Island Peak Mountain. Gaze at hypnotic views of the entire Everest region from the top. Return back to the base camp. Overnight stay in the base camp in tents.

Day 13 : Reserve day for climbing

This day is kept as a savior day, if you face weather issues, or in case the trek requires an extra day. You will stay in the tent at base camp.

Day 14 : Island Peak Base Camp - Pangboche (5-6 hrs | 3,985 m)

Wake to the beautiful sunrise, and embark  on the trek to the beautiful Pangboche in the Khumbu region. It is an exciting journey and one of the best ways to explore the legendary Buddhist monasteries of this region. Overnight stay at Pangboche in a tea house.

Day 15 : Pangboche - Namche Bazaar (12km | 4-5 hrs | 3,440 m)

Today, you will trek downhill to Tengboche. Descend from Tengboche to Dudh Koshi River. Cross the bridge and walk further to Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay tea-house or lodge.

Day 16 : Namche Bazaar - Lukla (7-8 hrs | 2,860 m)

Start today by following the descent in the trail from Namche Bazaar to the suspension bridge across Dudh Koshi river. This is the last day of your EBC trek. Trek back to Lukla.

Day 17 : Lukla - Kathmandu flight

Fly back to Kathmandu today from Lukla. On your arrival at the Kathmandu airport, check in at the hostel.

Day 18 : Departure from Kathmandu ​

Leave Kathmandu by flight for your return journey home.