Island Peak Climbing is the most appreciated trekking 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, Imja Tse 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.
How much does it cost for Island Peak Climbing?
Island Peak Climbing costs between $2500 to $4000 per person, depending on the level of service. Basically cost for Island Peak Climbing is depends on the season. Government of Nepal plan to charge peak climbing permit fee base on the season. Spring is one of the prime season for peak climbing and governemnt charge USD 350 PP as island peak climbing permit fee. It includes permits, guides, porters, flights, ccommodation, meals, and climbing gear. Additional costs include personal climbing equipment, travel insurance, and tips. The cost may rise if you combine Island Peak with Everest Base Camp Trek. Group climbing is cheaper than solo expeditions.
How to climb Island (Imja) Peak?
Island Peak trekking 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 expedition, spring season is the best time for this expedition.
Island Peak climbing 14 Days itinerary
Nepal Trekking Routes offers tailored made itineraries to suit your preferences. Here are some customization options of island Peak Climbing itinerary:
- 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.