Island Peak Climbing
Island Peak Climbing
Island Peak Climbing

Island Peak Climbing

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Duration14 Days
Trip GradeChallenging
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude6119 M
Group Size1-12
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesPeak Climbing
Best TimeMarch to May & September to December

Island Peak Climbing is the most appreciated package combined with the Everest Base Camp trek for lifetime experiences. Island Peak in Khumbu rises prominently out of the Imja Lakes just like a real island surrounded by clouds. You will get the best of both trekking and climbing in Nepal.  This all-time popular package fits first-time climbers and a refresher for veteran climbers. Island Peak (6,189 m) is one of the trekking peak of the Everest region climbed by thousands for adventure every year.

The Nepal trekking trip rewards you with an aerial view of the snow-capped peaks, alluring landscapes, and high-placed Sherpa villages. You can do Island Peak climbing without Everest Base Camp trek as well. The itinerary depends on whether you add the base camp to the package or not. While walking through the dense rhododendron, pine, and oak forests of Sagarmatha National Park, you come to witness many flora and fauna.

Located inside Sagarmatha National Park, a journey to Island Peak lets you enjoy the Great Himalayas. Mt. Amadablam (6,812 m), Cho-Oyu (8,201 m), Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse, Pumori, Thamsherku and several mountains are seen en route. Imja Valley, which is surrounded by gorges and glacial lakes, boasts juniper, fir, birch, and rhododendron forests. You encounter the Himalayan Thar, musk deer, goral, danphe,rare, jackal, monkey, and even the elusive snow leopard.

With enough acclimatization time, Island Peak climbing can be done without any mishaps. During the rest day at Namche Bazaar, you have a few interesting things to do to adjust to the high altitude. It helps you avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and explore the surrounding areas, too. You will visit the Everest View trek of Everest View Hotel, the hotel situated at the highest altitude in the world.

Island Peak Climbing Cost

Island Peak Trekking and Climbing costs between $2000 to $3000 per person, depending on the level of service. It includes permits, guides, porters, flights, accommodation, meals, and climbing gear. Additional costs include personal climbing equipment, travel insurance, and tips.  The cost may rise if you combine with the Everest Base Camp Trek. Group climbing is cheaper than solo expeditions.

What Else to Do in Namche Bazaar While You Are in Imja Peak Climbing

Besides, you can do a lot of things while resting at Namche Bazaar in the course of Island Peak climbing. Hike to Khumjung Village is the best way to see the Yeti Scalp in the Khumjung Monastery. The Sherpa Museum located a little farther from the Sherpa Capital, Namche Bazaar is a must-visit site in the Everest region. Besides Sherpa culture and tradition, you can see all the photos of Hillary and Tenzing from the 1953 Everest Expedition. All these rarest snaps are preserved in the Hall of Fame of the same museum.

Next, you can take a short stroll around the Sagarmatha National Park located at Monjo. The Office provides you with all the information about the biodiversity conserved within the highest-altitude national parks in the world. The diverse species of wildlife and vegetation of the Himalayan region are found in this protected area.

Likewise, you can visit some small Sherpa villages around Namche Bazaar. You can get first-hand information about their typical socio-cultural life and main occupations. You can also taste the organic food items prepared by these friendly people. You will have Island Peak Climbing experience along with the Sherpa cuisines. It is also a contribution to support them economically.

How to climb Island (Imja) Peak?

Island Peak trek route begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla. It takes nearly 30 minutes to reach the gateway to the Everest region trekking by flight. Then, along the rocky trail through the dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, you move towards Phakding, then Namche Bazaar. After acclimatization, the journey continues further to Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche,  Gorakshep, Everest Base Camp, and Kalapatthar.

After having the 360-degree panoramic view of Mt. Everest Summit from Kalapatthar, you descend towards Gorakshep. You have breakfast there and move further to Dingboche to move towards the Island Peak Summit by resting at the base camp. While at base camp, the Sherpa guide gives you all the information about the climbing skills and techniques. He trains you to use the climbing gears for the successful accomplishment of the task. The Island Peak summit day starts with glacier crossing then steep climb on snow slope. All the hard work will be rewarded by the stunning mountain views.  

Which is the best season for Island (Imja) Peak Climbing in Nepal?

Trekking peaks in Nepal are the ones above 6,000 m from the sea level. Peak Climbing to an elevation above 6,000 m is not always possible because of the unpredictable weather conditions. In winter, the excessive snowfall obstructs the climbing. In the same way, the fierce wind in the morning or daytime does not let you climb the peak. Therefore, the time just after midnight is the best to begin to walk towards the summit from High Camp.

With the help of the headlamp, you must cross the crevasses carefully. Actually, due to the warm weather favorable for stable snow levels, spring is the best season for peak climbing in Nepal. Spring in Nepal falls in March to April and May when most of the peaks including the Great Himalayas trail, So thousands of climbers scale them now. Nonetheless, the adventure lovers attempt to do it in October and November as well for the crystal clear view of the surroundings. Talking about Island Peak climbing, spring season is the best time for this expedition.

How difficult is Island Peak climbing?

Island Peak Climb is a difficult journey. However, trekkers with some experience in high-altitude trekking or basic mountaineering skills can do it. The climb is a perfect addition to the Everest region treks. It is suitable for those who want to try their first Himalayan peak.

Island Peak climb difficulty

The Island Peak climbing starts with several days of hiking through villages like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to acclimatize. Steep trails, glacier crossings, and the use of climbing gear like crampons and ropes are all part of the actual climb. The peak ridge is the hardest part to climb. It requires strong determination, balance, and stamina.
Altitude is the main factor for altitude sickness. It is important to be well prepared, fit and acclimatized. It is not a technical climb, but basic knowledge of mountaineering skills, like using ice axes and harnesses, is required. It is recommended to join a climbing group or climbing Island Peak with a guide for safety. 
It offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding peaks. If you are willing to push yourself, you will gain a sense of achievement and enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas. Take precautions to make the journey memorable and fulfilling. 

Island Peak climbing itinerary Customization

Nepal Trekking Routes offers tailored itineraries to suit your preferences. Here are some customization options:

  • Acclimatization Days: Adding rest days in Namche Bazaar or Dingboche to prevent altitude sickness.
  • Start Point: Combining the climb with treks like Everest Base Camp or Gokyo Lakes for added adventure.
  • Summit Focused: Opting for a direct Island Peak Summit with fewer days for experienced climbers.
  • Guided Support: Including professional guides, training sessions, or group climbs for safety and learning. 
  • Cultural Stops: Adding extra time to explore Sherpa villages, monasteries, or local markets.

The 14-day Island Peak climb itinerary 2025 can be customized according to the individual preference.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand All

Upon your arrival Nepal Trekking Routes Treks & Expedition representative are waiting to the Airport to pick up you with Display Board . When you will meet your offical representtive he/she will take you to the hotel.

Accommodation: Deluxe Hotel in Kathmandu

A spectacular flight and hair raising landing on a steep mountain runway brings us to the start of our trek at the village of Lukla [2850m]. After meeting the crew, we head up the Dudh Kosi Valley on a well-marked trail to our first camp near the river at Phakding.

Max Altitude: 2660 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 4 Hrs
B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, and D= Dinner

We cross and re-cross the river on high suspension bridges. Beyond Monjo is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park which was set-up in order to protect and preserve this fragile mountain environment. We then ascend quite steeply to Namche and along the way, if the weather is clear, catch a first glimpse of Mt Everest in the distance. Namche is the main trading village in the Khumbu and has a busy Saturday market – a meeting place for the Hindu traders from the lowlands and the Tibetan yak caravans that have crossed the glaciated Nangpa La. Camp is near the bazaar at Namche.

Max Altitude: 3440 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Namche is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the Khumbu and has an abundance of lodges, tea shops and souvenir shops as well as a magnificent outlook. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day, acclimatizing to the new altitude before heading off towards Tengboche. Options for acclimatization walks include a visit to Khunde hospital which was set-up by Sir Edmund Hillary, or a one hour walk up to the Everest view hotel above Namche for the sunset view of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse and Everest. There are also good views from the national park centre and museum just above the town

Max Altitude: 3440 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea House

From Namche, the trail contours around the side of the valley, high above the Dudh Kosi. Now we get our first really good views of the great peaks of the Khumbu including mt Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. Passing by several villages and numerous tea shops, we descend steeply to a bridge over the river at Phunki Tenga. The village is an excellent lunch spot, and here we can rest before making the steep climb to Tengboche. Although tiring, the hike up the zigzag path has numerous distractions, with rhododendron bushes, beautiful birds and superb mountain scenery. Tengboche is famous for its legendary monastery, the largest in the Khumbu. We camp near the monastery with Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam framed in the doorway of the tent

Max Altitude: 3878 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6-7 Hrs

The trail from Tengboche to Dingboche moves across yet another suspension bridge over the Imja Khola. By crossing the trail surrounded and beautified by numerous mani stones, you reach Pangboche. Here, you can visit Pangboche Monastery, which is the oldest in the Khumbu region of its type. Moving ahead along the steep trail, you reach Dingboche, a traditional Sherpa Village of Everest region. Apart from Sherpa culture and tradition, you can relish the awe-inspiring outlook of Mt. Lhotse, Island Peak and Mt. Ama Dablam.

Max Altitude: 4410 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5-6 Hrs

This is another acclimatization day during trekking to Everest Base Camp. In the morning, you can hike to Nagarjun Hill (Nangkartshang Peak: 5,073m) if the weather is favourable. Although the trail to the peak is quite challenging, the view is really rewarding. You can have the top- to- bottom- glimpse of Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812m) from the top. In the daytime, you can stroll around the village, which is famous for a long stonewalls made in the course of collecting them during cultivating the field. You can talk to the friendly Sherpa people of this Himalayan town to know more about interesting anecdotes of their history.

 

Max Altitude: 4410 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea House

Today, we have an easy walk for about 5 hours, climbing up gradually to the small settlement of Chukhung. Along the way we have great views of Island Peak and the challenge that awaits us.The trail crosses the river and follows the valley for approx 3 hours, passing beneath the magnificent south face of Lhotse. Base camp is by the side of the Imja glacier, below steep grassy slopes which mark the start of the climb on Island Peak.

 

Max Altitude: 4750 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tent/CampingDuration: 7-8 Hrs

We ascend a little further to high camp. Crossing the gully above the camp the trail makes a climb for another hour to a narrow ridge, leading on to the glacier. Here it is time to rope-up and put on our crampons as the most interesting part of the climb begins with the glacier crossing. This is followed by the steep snow slope that leads onto the summit ridge. This ridge is wonderfully airy and on reaching the summit we have stunning close-up views of the south face of Lhotse looming over us whilst in the other direction, there are more dramatic mountain views. We descend along the same route, down to base camp.

 

Max Altitude: 6119 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tent/CampingDuration: 12 Hrs

After summite you trek back to Island Peak base camp and collect your thing continue to trek to Chhukung and overnight at Chhukung

 

Max Altitude: 4750 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Today we follow the river and, after crossing it, climb back up through birch and rhododendron forest to Tengboche. Kwangde, Tawache, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Kantega and Thamserku are just a few of the Himalayan giants to be seen. From Tengboche we descend to the bridge over the Dudh Kosi at Phunki Tenga, where there are water driven prayer wheels, before making our way back to Namche

 

Max Altitude: 3440 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8 Hrs

Today you will walk alonggg the Dudhkoshi river via smal sherpa village and reach to the Lukla overnight at lukla

 

Max Altitude: 2860 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8 Hrs

Fly to Kathmandu We pack up early and head for the airstrip for the flight back to Kathmandu

 

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Deluxe HotelDuration: 30 Minutes Flight

Onward Departure Day from Nepal to your home country. Nepal Trekking Routes Treks & Expedition treks will provide you free transport to international airport ( TIA )

Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Three nights Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu on B/B basis;
  • Pick up and drop from Kathmandu airport to airport.
  • 3 meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunch and Dinners with a cup of tea or coffee) during the trek and climbing period.
  • Full board Accommodation of Lodges, Guesthouses in Twin Sharing Bases during the trek and tent will be available during the climbing period
  • All camping equipment in Base camp;
  • Flight Ticket from Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu for member and Staff
  • 10 kg baggage allowance in flight and 25 Kg during trekking (with porter or yaks);
  • Surface transportation will be available as per itinerary;
  • Trekking Permit (National Park entry fee)
  • TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System) Permit
  • Climbing permit for Island Peak
  • Necessary staff during the trekking and climbing period With Experience Guide and Porter.
  • Necessary experienced Government license holder Climbing guide during climbing period as per group size
  • Facility of Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all trekking staff.
  • Group medical supplies (First Aid medical kit will be available)
  • One tent will be available in the Base camp for 2 people on shared basis;
  • High altitude food and all climbing crew will be available above base camp.
  • Necessary fixed and dynamic ropes will be available during climbing period
  • necessary kitchen crew will be available in base camp
  • All necessary paper works, office Service charge and Government Taxes
  • Complete pre-departure information, flight ticket reconfirmation and extend visa service(if necessary)
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu before departure.
Excludes
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Emergency rescue evacuation if required.
  • Personal accident insurance or Helicopter rescue.
  • Airfare international flights
  • Nepal entry visa fee, Visa issuance is easy at the arrival
  • Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks, hot shower.
  • Alcoholic beverages, Mineral water, laundry, phone calls, internets.
  • Personal climbing equipment
  • All kind of Personal Expenses
  • Ice fall fees Garbage Deposit (Sharing with other member) if applicable.
  • Wake talkies &Filming permit.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section
  • Tips, gifts, souvenirs.
Route Map
Island Peak Climbing Map
Essential Information

Island Peak Climb 2025/026 promises an exciting adventure in Nepal’s Everest region. With an altitude of 6,189m, it is perfect for trekkers looking for their first Himalayan summit. The climb includes trekking through Sherpa villages, acclimatization stops, and breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest. The summit requires basic mountaineering skills due to its steep ridges and glacier crossings. This climb is sometimes combined with Gokyo Lakes or Everest Base Camp. Here is the essential information you need to know about Island Peak Climbing:

Location

Island Peak (Imja Tse) is located within the Sagarmatha National Park, near Chhukung village. It lies at the southeast of Mount Everest in the Everest region of Nepal.

Accessibility:

Island Peak is accessible from Kathmandu to Lukla. You can trek through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Chhukung before reaching Island Peak Base Camp. 

Maximum Elevation:

Island Peak climbing altitude is 6,189 m, offering stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and surrounding peaks.

Best Time to climb Island Peak:

  • Peak Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal for the climb due to stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures.
  • Weather Situation: Weather during the peak season is mild with daytime temperatures ranging from -5ËšC to 10ËšC and nighttime can drop to -15ËšC at high altitudes.

Challenges in Off-Seasons:

  • Winter (December-February): Extreme cold, high snowfall, and risk of avalanches.
  • Monsoon (June-August): Slippery trails, unpredictable weather, and low visibility due to heavy rainfall.

Accommodation During the Trek

  • Lodging: Teahouses in lower region; tented camping at Island Peak Base Camp.
  • Showers: Bucket hot showers available at teahouses; no showers at Base Camp.
  • Internet: Wi-Fi is available in Namche, Tengboche, and Dingboche but is slow and costly.
  • Food: Nepalese, Tibetan, and Western Meals.
  • Drinking Water: Bottled water is expensive. Carry purification tablets for tap water.

Permit Required

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit: $30 per person
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: $20 per person
  • Island Peak Climbing Permit: $250 (Spring), $125 (Autumn), $70 (Winter/Summer)

Tipping guideline:

Tipping is not mandatory; however, it is appreciated. Here are some tipping guides:

  • Guide: $10-$20 per day
  • Porter: $8-$15 per day
  • Climbing Sherpa: $100-$200 for the summit climb

Last-Minute Booking with Nepal Trekking Routes

Nepal Trekking Routes allows last-minute bookings depending on weather, guide requirement, and permit availability. Booking should be done in advance for proper preparation.

Eco-Friendly Options:

  • Instead of buying plastic water bottles, use reusable ones with filters.
  • Stay in solar-powered eco-friendly lodges.
  • Carry biodegradable toiletries and pack out waste.
  • Reduce the number of campfires to protect forests.
  • To protect the fragile ecosystem, do not leave rubbish at Base Camp or high-altitude areas.

Mode of Transportation

Flight: Kathmandu → Lukla (35 minutes)
Trekking: Lukla → Namche Bazaar → Tengboche → Dingboche → Chhukung → Island Peak Base Camp
Helicopter Option: Available for emergency evacuation and luxury return from Island Peak Base Camp.

What to pack for Island Peak climb

  • Climbing Gear: Ice axe, harness, crampons, helmet, carabiners, and fixed rope.
  • Clothing: Down jacket, thermal layers, waterproof gloves, and windproof pants.
  • Footwear: Insulated climbing boots and gaiters.
  • Accessories: UV-protection sunglasses, headlamp, and trekking poles.

Financial Institution:

ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar, but they have high transaction fees and withdrawal limits.
Since credit cards are not commonly accepted in the mountains, bring cash in Nepali Rupees (NPR).
Exchange currency in Kathmandu for better rates and availability.

People and Culture

The Everest region is dominated by the Sherpa people. They are known for their mountaineering expertise. You will observe Buddhist traditions, prayer flags, ancient monasteries, and Mani walls along the trail. The trek offers a rich cultural experience with Sherpa hospitality, local festivals like Mani Rimdu, and their deep connection to Everest. 

Type of Travel

Adventure and Expedition: The expedition requires basic mountaineering skills.
Guided and Group Climb: It is recommended for safety and support.
Solo Climbing: It is possible but challenging due to high-altitude risks.

Island Peak climbing Tips 

Here are Island Peak climbing preparation tips:

  • Develop your strength and stamina. Island Peak requires technical climbing skills and high-altitude trekking.
  • Acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness. Spend additional days at Dingboche and Chhukung.
  • Hire experienced guides and Sherpas for safe summit attempts.
  • Check weather forecasts to avoid risky climbs.
  • Have proper insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation.
  • Stay hydrated and eat high-energy food.
  • Be Patient, as weather delays can affect summit plans.
  • Ask before taking photos to show respect for Sherpa culture.
  • Reduce your impact on the environment by using eco-friendly gear.
  • Island Peak is a difficult yet rewarding climb, so mentally prepare yourself.

Best Alternative

Consider Mera Peak (6,476m) for a less technical but scenic climb. It offers higher altitude trekking, fewer technical sections, and stunning Mountain views. It is ideal for first-time climbers. 
 

FAQs

Yes, it is possible to climb Island Peak solo. However, it is strongly recommended that you hire a guide or join a group for your safety. Guides and groups can provide knowledge, safety, and support that can make your experience more enjoyable.

If the weather is bad on your summit day, the best thing to do is to be flexible and adjust your plans accordingly. If conditions are too dangerous to attempt the summit, it‘s best to turn back and wait for better conditions. If visibility is low, it‘s important to stay on the designated route and to use the rope lines that are set up. If you are properly equipped with the right gear and clothing, you should be able to stay safe and warm while waiting out the storm.

The amount of tip for a climbing guide is entirely up to you and based on your own personal judgment. It is generally considered polite to tip a guide, especially if you had a good experience, as it shows your appreciation for their services. Most people usually tip around 10–20% of the total cost of the climbing trip, although this amount can vary depending on the services provided.

The essential equipment for a successful island peak climbing expedition includes:

1. Technical climbing equipment such as a harness, helmet, carabiners, slings, ascenders, descenders, ice axe, crampons, snow pickets, and anchor building materials.

2. Mountaineering boots, insulated sleeping bag, down sleeping bag, sleeping pad, headlamp, and lightweight tent.

3. Clothing: waterproof and breathable jacket and pants, insulated jacket, light and warm layers, fleece and synthetic base layers, gloves, and hat.

4. Personal items such as a first aid kit, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, water bottles, energy snacks, and a camera.

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