Trip overview
Over view: Island peak 14 days climbing
Island Peak climbing is fashionable peak expedition knowledge in the Everest region of Nepal. The island peak is 6,189 m above sea level. The island peak is also known as Imja Tse. Why is the Island Peak famous? The island peak is famous for climbing in Nepal. The island peak is located in the middle of Chhukung Valley. The Chhukung Valley is 4750 m above sea level. On the top of Chhukung Glacier between Mt. Lhotse, Chhukung-Ri Peak, and Ama Dablam.
The Chhukung-Ri is famous for the sunrise views similar to Gokyo-Ri and Kalapathar. That why, many tourists are visiting the Chhukung-Ri for the sunrise, before to Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar. This Chhukung-Ri peak is coming a downward and conservatory of the position from the southern part of Lhotse Shar. It’s like an island in the sea of ice, as a result of the name of an island peak. The Islad Peak, Island Peak, was climbed by the team Eric’s Shipton in 1953. This peak is the most excellent trekking peaks for exploration climbing.
Nepal is home to many peaks; however, only 33 of them have been authorized as trekking peaks. Among these, the trek to Island Peak is widely regarded as one of the most revitalizing experiences. This journey includes a 250-meter rope climb to the summit, which not only rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of the Himalayan range but also offers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the untouched landscapes, rich traditions, and deep-rooted faith of the Sherpa people along the way.
Furthermore, Island Peak presents a magnificent panorama of towering giants such as Nuptse, Lhotse, Lhotse Middle, and Lhotse Shar—all standing above 8,000 meters—forming a semi-circle to the north. Meanwhile, to the east, Mt. Makalu extends a majestic greeting, while to the south, Baruntse and the iconic Ama Dablam add to the stunning scenery.
Moreover, the trail provides a rare opportunity to witness glacial moraines, including the Imja and Lhotse glaciers, as well as experience the thrill of crossing suspension bridges. Along the way, trekkers will encounter monasteries, prayer stones, and vibrant settlements adorned with fluttering prayer flags. Not to mention, the route passes through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts a remarkable diversity of rare flora, fauna, and bird species.
Above all, the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people enhances the trekking experience, making the journey not only visually spectacular but also culturally enriching.
Highlights:
1. Stunning Views
Panoramic Himalayan Views: Island Peak provides breathtaking vistas of some of the world’s highest mountains, including Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), Makalu (8,485m), and Ama Dablam (6,812m).
The summit ridge offers unparalleled views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks.
2. Challenging Climb
It is considered a beginner-friendly climb for those looking to step into mountaineering, but it still requires basic technical skills such as using crampons, ropes, and an ice axe. The steep ascent to the summit ridge and the glacier traverse are key challenges.
3. Trek through the Khumbu Region
The approach to Island Peak follows the classic Everest Base Camp trail, passing through iconic villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. Explore the rich Sherpa culture, visit Buddhist monasteries, and enjoy the hospitality of locals.
4. Imja Glacier
The Imja Glacier is a significant glacier in the Everest region of Nepal, located between Island Peak (Imja Tse) and Lhotse Shar. It plays a crucial role in the hydrology of the area and is directly linked to the formation of Imja Tsho (Imja Lake), one of Nepal’s fastest-growing glacial lakes.
Location & Geography
Situated in the Khumbu region, within Sagarmatha National Park. Stretches between the Lhotse and Nuptse ridges, flowing southeast. Acts as the primary source of Imja Tsho, which has expanded due to glacial melt.
Climate Change & Glacier Retreat
The Imja Glacier is rapidly retreating as a result of climate change and rising temperatures. Over the past 50 years, it has significantly shrunk, leading to the expansion of Imja Tsho. Consequently, this retreat has become a major concern for local communities, as it increases the risk of glacial lake outburst floods, which could have devastating impacts on the surrounding settlements and infrastructure.
Importance for Island Peak Climbers
The glacier’s changing landscape affects the route to Island Peak Base Camp. Climbers often witness the effects of global warming firsthand as they navigate the mountains and ice formations. Gradually receding glaciers, unstable icefalls, and unpredictable weather patterns serve as stark reminders of the changing climate, making their expeditions both more challenging and more unpredictable.
5. Accessibility
The journey usually begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, followed by trekking through the lush valleys of the Everest region.
6. Best Season
Ideal climbing seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), offering stable weather and clear views.
7. Training Ground for Higher Peaks
Many climbers use Island Peak as a preparation climb for higher mountains like Everest or Ama Dablam.
Similarly, Himalayan Realms Treks offers a wide range of trekking routes in the Everest region, including both classic trails and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Moreover, these routes cater to trekkers of all skill levels, from beginners seeking a short and scenic trek to experienced hikers looking for a challenging expedition.
In addition to the Everest region, the Annapurna region stands out as an ideal destination for adventurers. Its breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultural experiences, and well-established trekking infrastructure make it a top choice for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural immersion. Below are some of them for your information.
6. Gokyo lake with Renjo-la pass trek
Short Itinerary
Kathmandu Arrival and Preparation
Flight to Lukla & Trek to Phakding
Namche Bazaar Acclimatization
Trek to Tengboche & Dingboche
Trek to Chhukung (Acclimatization Day)
Island Peak Base Camp & Pre-Climb Training
Summit Attempt & Return to Base Camp
Trek Back via Pangboche, Namche, and Lukla
Fly to Kathmandu and Departure
Itinerary
Kathmandu to Lukla (2830m.) to Phakding (2,652m.): Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and camp at Phakding approximately 3 hrs.Walking distances. The trail tops a small ridge and from where the trail descends to Chaurikharka (2,340m.) and passes below Lukla to Chaurikharka. The field that passes through support crops of corn potatoes, wheat and Cabbage and the Sherpa here are generally better off thins their friends above Namche.
Phakding to Namchebazar (3,446m.): Approximately 5 hrs.walking which is a beautiful day walking through magnificent Rhododendron, Magnolia and Fir forest. Several villages provide welcome tea shops and views of the peaks increase and improve until finally reach Namche after a long pull up of a ridge. Namche is the main Sherpa village and have to rest on the afternoon to enjoy walking round the village.
First of all, there is no such thing as a "rest" day on the trail. Almost all EBC itineraries include two leisure days, one at Namche Bazaar and one in Dingboche, which are severely misleading. If you were planning on spending a relaxing day with your friends over a cup of tea (or a glass of beer) next to a cow dung-fired teahouse burner, think again. According to my guide, the rest days are actually acclimatization days in which you "hike higher and sleep lower". We would take a "rest" day here to allow our bodies to adjust to the greater height and avoid altitude sickness. Namche Bazaar is at 11500 feet, which is higher than Machu Picchu if you have gone there.
Namche Bazaar to Thyangboche (3,897m.): After breakfast, trek will lead to Fungi Thenga for Lunch. After lunch ascend another 2-hrs.and reach at Tengboche and pay a visit to Monastery with Sherpa guide. Form Tengboche we can see Everest (8,848 m.), Nupse ((7,879m.), Lothse (8,516m.), Khantega (6,809m.), and most beautiful of all Ama Dablam(6,856m.).
Tyanboche to Dingoche:- Our trek today kicks off with a walk through the rhododendron forest to Deboche followed by a bridge over the raging Imja Khol River. We’ll pass the valley wall and then traverse the plains to Pangboche village, the biggest settlement of Sherpas in the region. Enjoy a great opportunity to observe a typical Sherpa village and have lunch with the locals! The intrepid can brave a brief hike to the Pangboche monastery, one of the oldest in the area. Our afternoon trek will be a difficult one, as the landscape gives way to dry; deserted mountains and we hike towards Dingboche.
This is your chance to rest up before the last leg of our adventure! Savor a full day of exploring Dingboche and the surrounding valleys of Chhukung and Imja, the latter of which links with Island Peak, the high passes of Amphu Laptsa, and Makalu Barun National Park. Taking an optional trek to the valleys will pay off in rewarding views, but taking it easy is the most important thing today. You’ll need your rest for the penultimate day of ascent tomorrow
Dingboche to Chukung:-As we make our way to Chukung, climbing training commences. It is possible to make the Island Peak summit with no prior climbing experience (assuming sufficient physical fitness), but having past climbs under your belt will make you a stronger and more confident climber. You’ll enjoy the summit more if you aren’t quite so anxious about the actual climbing! Staff will give you hands-on training on the use of implements like the ice axe and climbing boot, and demonstrate moving up and down on ropes.
Chukung to Island summit and back to Base Camp:-Today’s the big day! Prepare to get started before the thin light of dawn as we make our ascent with headlamps, scaling the rocky trail up. Our timing is superb: we’ll drink in a glorious Himalayan sunrise atop a shining glacier and prepare for the tough, ultimate climb. A brief trek against a plateau of virginal snow brings us to the steep, precipitous final headwall. Time to put those climbing skills to use! The scramble for the summit is arduous, but you’ll never be more proud of yourself! After a brief, triumphant time at what feels like the top of the world, it’s (carefully!) downwards towards the charming village of Chukung.
Island peak base camp to Chukung:-This is your chance to rest up before the last leg of our adventure! Savor a full day of exploring Dingboche and the surrounding valleys of Chhukung and Imja, the latter of which links with Island Peak, the high passes of Amphu Laptsa, and Makalu Barun National Park. Taking an optional trek to the valleys will pay off in rewarding views, but taking it easy is the most important thing today. You’ll need your rest for the penultimate day of ascent tomorrow.
Tyanboche to Namche Bazar :- The walk from Pheriche back to Tengboche is mainly downhill, although it does, counter-intuitively, require an hour scaling a hill. We’ll be in Namche by late afternoon and off to bed before our last day on the mountain.
Namche Bazar to Phakding via Lukla:- After breakfast, we trek toward the Hillary Suspension Bridge and then pass through several local villages. Our arrival in Lukla brings an evening in a proper hotel and, traditionally, a party with your trekking crew: you made it! Thanks to great teamwork and perseverance, you’ve accomplished a physical feat of which others only dream. This is your last night on the mountain, which can be bittersweet.
-Lukla to Kathmandu by flight:- In the morning, you’ll hop a brief flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, where your journey both began and ends. You’ll transfer to your hotel upon landing for some much-needed solo rest and reflection after your trek conquering the Himalayas. We’ll reunite in the evening for a farewell dinner at one of the best.
Final departure from Hotel to TIA (tribhuvan international airport
Included
- All airport, hotel airport transfers
- National Park permit & peak climbint permit
- Climbing guide equipment and salary
- Garbage bag deposit
- Flight fare from Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu
- 2night hotel in Kathmandu with B/B basic plan
- Accommodation in the tea house,food, Tea/coffee during trek
- Guide:- including salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
- Porter:- including salary, insurance, equipment, food and lodging
- For guest:-Down jacket, Good sleeping bag (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
- All government and local taxes
- Tips for guide and porters. If you are happy with them from theirs serveices.
Not Included
- Food in Kathmandu ( Lunch & Dinner)
- Bakery food during the trek
- Nepal Visa fee
- International airfare from your country to Kathmandu and from Kathmandu
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
- Travel and rescue insurance if guest get mountain sickness and need to rescue helicopter.
- Personal expenses example (phone calls, laundry service , bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
Useful Info
Island Peak (Imja Tse) is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal, standing at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet). It offers a thrilling climbing experience and is often used as preparation for higher Himalayan expeditions, such as Mount Everest. Below is some essential information for climbers considering this adventure.
Best Time to Climb
The ideal seasons for Island Peak climbing are:
Spring (March–May): stable weather, warmer temperatures, and clear views.
Autumn (September–November): Favorable conditions with minimal snowfall and stunning visibility.
Winter (December–February): Possible but extremely cold with challenging conditions.
Monsoon (June–August): Not recommended due to heavy rainfall and difficult trails.
Required Permits
To climb Island Peak, you need the following permits:
Island Peak Climbing Permit (Issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association)
1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit Difficulty Level & Required Experience
Island Peak is considered a moderate-to-difficult climb. Prior trekking experience is essential, and basic mountaineering skills (such as using crampons, ice axes, and ropes) are beneficial. A good level of physical fitness is required to endure high-altitude conditions and steep ascents.
Typical Itinerary (14–18 Days)
A common itinerary includes: Accommodation & Food
Tea houses and lodges are available along the trekking route. At Island Peak Base Camp, climbers stay in tents. Meals include local Nepali dishes, Dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and basic Western options.
Necessary Gear & Equipment:
Climbing Gear: ice axe, harness, helmet, carabiners, crampons, ropes. Clothing: Insulated down jacket, windproof layers, gloves, trekking boots. Accessories: sleeping bag (-20°C rating), headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen. Miscellaneous: first-aid kit, snacks, hydration system, trekking poles.
Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is a risk above 3,000 meters, so acclimatization days in Namche and Chhukung are crucial. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Hydration, proper rest, and a gradual ascent help prevent severe altitude sickness.
Why Climb Island Peak?
Perfect for beginners aiming for a Himalayan peak
Stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu
Excellent preparation for higher-altitude expeditions
Adventure combined with the classic Everest Base Camp trek
