Island Peak (Imja Tse) Climb — 16 Days

Island Peak (Imja Tse) Climb — 16 Days

16Days
6,189mMax altitude
HardDifficulty
$2,475per person

Overview

Island Peak (Imja Tse) Climb — 16 Days

Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) is a 16-day trekking-peak climb in the Khumbu. This itinerary is the climb itself — not the Everest Base Camp and Kongma La combination, which is a separate package (see Island Peak Climbing with Gokyo Ri and EBC). You need good fitness and basic climbing skills. A licensed climbing guide is included. From US $2,475 per person.

Island Peak Climb Trip Overview:

The peak was named “Island Peak” by Eric Shipton's party in 1951 since it appears as an island in a sea of ice when viewed from Dingboche. It is the ideal progression peak. The journey gifts you spectacular views of the giants, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and many more. 

The trip commences in Kathmandu with a flight to the alpine village of Lukla, following the classic Khumbu trail through Namche Bazaar, Tyangboche, and Dingboche to Chhukung before the summit push from Island Peak Base Camp. This is a trekking peak: it demands good physical condition and basic mountaineering skills with fixed ropes, crampons, and an ice axe — it is not a family day hike.

Itinerary Outline:

1st Day: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265 ft)
2nd Day: Flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft) & trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,562ft), a 3-4 hrs walk
3rd Day: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft), a 5-6 hrs walk
4th Day: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar
5th Day: Trek from Namche to Tyangboche (3,860m/12,664ft), 5-6 hrs walk
6th Day: Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche (4,410m/14,469 ft), 5-6 hrs walk
7th Day: Acclimatization day at Dingboche
8th Day: Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung Valley (4,730m/15,518ft), 2-3 hrs walking
9th Day: Trek from Chhukung-Island Peak Base camp (5,100m/16,732ft), 3-4 hours
10th Day: Island Peak Summit (6,189m/20,305ft) and return back to base camp 
11th Day: Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Chhukung, 3-4 hours
12th Day: Trek from Chhukung to Tyangboche (3,860m/12,664ft), 4-5 hrs walk
13th Day: Trek from Tyangboche to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft), 4-5 hrs walk
14th Day: Trek from Namche to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), 6-7 hrs walk
15th Day: Flight back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265 ft)
16th Day: Departure from Kathmandu
End of our services

Note: Because of bad weather we could face problems with domestic flights to/from Lukla delayed by a few hours or canceled for a day or more. Very rarely, but it could happen even in the best trekking season also as you know how climate changes affect our world. Thus, we always recommend you add supplement night/s in Kathmandu after your trek (just in case). If everything runs smoothly, you can enjoy other activities like sightseeing, White water rafting, wildlife activities, and shopping, as you wish on that additional day. However, if you want heli rescue in the state of flight cancellation to/ from Lukla, we can organize it as per your request at extra cost.

Duration16 days
DifficultyHard
Max altitude6,189m
Start / EndKathmandu
AccommodationHotel accommodation in Kat...
Island Peak (Imja Tse) Climb — 16 Days photo
Island Peak (Imja Tse) Climb — 16 Days photo Island Peak (Imja Tse) Climb — 16 Days photo

Best Season for this trip

Autumn (Sep, Oct, Nov) & Spring (March, April & May)

Spring: Mar-May Monsoon: Jun-Aug Autumn: Sep-Nov Winter: Dec-Feb

Day by day

Unfold your journey

Island Peak Climb Map

Kathmandu → Kathmandu

Island Peak (Imja Tse) Climb — 16 Days route map
day
1

Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265 ft)

20 Minutes Hotel Kathmandu Welcome Dinner
Welcome to the Himalayan country of Nepal. Our representative will be waiting to welcome you upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport to welcome you and assist you to transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. After taking some time to get refreshed, you'll meet again in the evening. Then, we will transfer for a welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurants in the heart of Kathmandu. We will have a short brief about the trip and overnight at the Hotel.
day
2

Flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft) & trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,562ft), a 3-4 hrs walk

27 Minutes 3-4 Hrs Tea House Phakding 3 Meals
You'll be transferred to the domestic airport to fly to Lukla in the early morning. It will take us about 40 minutes for the scenic flight to Lukla airport (2,800m/9,184ft). After reaching Lukla, you will have some time to stroll around, while the guide sort and divide a load of baggage to be carried by porters. The guide will manage the lunch place depending upon the time of arrival at Lukla. We will start our trek further to Phakding passing some Sherpa villages and farms. We will be following the trail to Dudhkoshi River and further down on route to Phakding. The walk will be completely gradual most of the way, with a few ups from Thado Khola, where you will have a superb view of Kusum-Kangaru (6,369m/20,890ft) crossing a short suspension bridge. From hereafter, a short climb will bring us to the Ghat village, and another 1 and 1/2 hours of gradual walk bring you to Phakding village for the overnight stop and stroll around the village for local knowledge.
day
3

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft), a 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Namche Bazaar 3 Meals
The trek will start in the morning. After crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh-Kosi, the walk will be a pleasant walk with a few short uphill and downhill. We will be re-crossing the same river again with a magnificent view of Mt. Thamserku (6,608m) from the Benkar village. The trek will continue crossing the bridges till we reach Monjo. Monjo is the entrance gate of the Sagarmatha National Park, where your trekking permit is checked. They will keep a record of all trekkers going to and from this place including the local trekking staff as well. After entering the National Park boundary, we will descend and take a gradual walk that will bring us to the suspension bridge over the Dudh-Koshi River. Jorsalle village is the last village till Namche Bazaar. From here the walk will be pleasant on the river bed till we reach the last bridge over the Dudh-Koshi River. The walk will change along the winding uphill path to Namche Bazaar, with a magnificent view of Kwangde Peak and its other sister peaks towards the east with Kusum Kanguru on the back. As you will climb higher, you'll get an amazing view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and a closer view of Tawache Peak. Finally, we will reach a colorful house, called Namche Bazaar, the main gate of the Khumbu region. We will have an overnight stay at the hotel.
day
4

Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar

Tea House Namche Bazaar 3 Meals
You will have a full day of leisure. You can also choose to visit the Everest View Point Hotel for a wonderful panoramic view or stroll around the market if the day is Saturday. Many people visit Saturday markets for shopping, fulfilling their daily needs because it is the only shopping market in the surrounding areas. You can also visit the Sherpa Museum as well, which is a great place to learn about Sherpa culture and the history of mountaineering. We will stroll back to the hotel overnight.
day
5

Trek from Namche to Tyangboche (3,860m/12,664ft), 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Tyangboche 3 Meals
After a stroll around the Namche area, we will begin a refreshed day. It will be fairly easy to walk further on this day. Our walk will follow on the gradual trail with a few short up and downs overlooking magnificent views of the great giant snow peaks of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kwangde Peak. After a pleasant walk of two hours to a small place at Shanasa, the trail will descend to the Dudh-Koshi River at Phungithanga, a small settlement with a couple of teahouses. The trail will then lead uphill through the forested path of silver fir, blue pines, rhododendron, and a few magnolia and birch trees. After two hours hard, the walk will get to Tyangboche, one of the most beautiful places in the Himalayas. The first thing that comes to your eye will be the big Monastery or Gumba, then the large field with campsites and teahouses, lodges beneath the towering majestic beautiful peak Ama Dablam, Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Lhotse Shar towards the northeast, and more peaks all around you.
day
6

Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche (4,410m/14,469 ft), 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Dingboche 3 Meals
Our trek will start with a pleasant walk and descend through a forest of birch, fir, juniper, and rhododendron. We will then reach a lovely spot at Deboche (3,650 m) with a magnificent view of mountains, past the long prayer mani wall. The path will then be gradual up to the Pangboche village. Onwards the village, you can see the lush vegetation and tree lines vanish, as we will enter the Imjatse valley to the Dingboche. The great view of the mighty peaks of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Lhotse with a view of the eastern snow-capped mountains including the Island peak Climb and Imjatse (6,189m) can also be seen from the place. Dingboche is a beautiful patchwork of fields enclosed by stone walls, protecting the crops of barley, buckwheat, and potatoes from the cold winds and grazing animals. Dingboche has more than ten teahouses which is also the gateway to Chukung.
day
7

Acclimatization day at Dingboche

Tea House Dingboche 3 Meals
We will take a day to rest for acclimatization at Dingboche Valley. After the early morning breakfast, we will hike up to Nagarjuna viewpoint (5,050 m) situated just north of Dingboche. We will see many towering peaks a front of you and a close view of Mt. Lhotse from Dingboche. We can also get a good view of Mt. Makalu, Island Peak, Amadablam, Tawache, Cholatse, Lobuche Peak, and many more from the top. This will be one of the best-hidden viewpoints and a way to good acclimatize the climbers. Enjoy a stroll back to Dingboche. Overnight.
day
8

Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung Valley (4,730m/15,518ft), 2-3 hrs walking

2-3 Hrs Tea House Chhukung Valley 3 Meals
We will have a very short day. After having breakfast, we will head further eastern side for 2-3 hours. After taking a gentle uphill, we will reach Chhukung, which is a hidden valley near the base of Island Peak Climb. We'll have a full day's rest. It will be the last place to prepare for camping and climbing. Overnight at Hotel.
day
9

Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base camp (5,100m/16,732ft), 3-4 hours

3-4 Hrs Tent Island Peak Base camp 3 Meals
We will head on to our journey with a steep way climbing the southern part and then turning east to the main line of the valley. The trail will then wind along or below the southern flank of the moraine from the Lhotse Glacier. We will continue the short pleasant walk along a streamside that will then lead us to “Big-rock”. The route to the Amphu Lapcha lies to the southeast. A crisis cross route through the Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines will lead us to a wide valley flanking the southwest side of Island Peak. We'll reach the Island peak base camp. Overnight at the tented camp.
day
10

Island Peak Summit (6,189m/20,305ft) and return to base camp

7-8 Hrs Tent Base camp 3 Meals
Our destination finally arrives after walking for a long journey of about ten days. We will start our climb early morning through the rock gully. This will not be much difficult but there are several short rock steps to climb before you emerge on the right side of the gully. The route will then follow a ridgeline, which will lead us to an exhilarating and exposed traverse onto the snout of the summit glacier. You will need to rope up for the glacier as it will contain several crevasses. You have to keep in mind that the path will lead us without difficulty up to 100m/330ft. There might be some snow and ice slope (40-45 degrees) on which the guide will fix a rope. From the top of this slope, 3 rope lengths along a sharp summit ridge will lead to the top. You can enjoy with success and bravery to get a summit and after some picture taking of scenic view, we will descend back to the base camp after exploring the peak. Overnight at the base camp.
day
11

Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Chhukung, 3-4 hours

3-4 Hrs Tea House Chhukung 3 Meals
After the successful ascent and resting in the Island Base Camp, we will start our journey back down. We will take our early breakfast and start our way downwards. The trek will not be long but we will need to be careful walking down. Some of us may be tired due to the climb the previous day. We will climb downwards towards our destination at Chhukung leaving behind the beautiful mountains and scenarios. Chhukung is a beautiful settlement with a few tea houses. Overnight in one of the lodges in tea houses in Chhhukung.
day
12

Trek from Chhukung to Tyangboche (3,860m/12,664ft), 4-5 hrs walk

4-5 Hrs Tea House Tyangboche 3 Meals
The walk for the day will be easy heading downhill to a lower elevation from Chhukung. The walk to Tyangboche will be pleasant. After the Dingboche valley, we will get down to the bridge then our route will descend following the stream towards Tengboche village and further down to Tyangboche. Tyangboche is one of the most beautiful places in the Himalayas. The first thing that comes to your eye will be the big Monastery or Gumba, then the large field with campsites and teahouses, lodges beneath the towering majestic beautiful peak Ama Dablam, Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Lhotse Shar towards the northeast, and more peaks all around you.
day
13

Trek from Tyangboche to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft), 4-5 hrs walk

4-5 Hrs Tea House Namche 3 Meals
The trek down to Phungithanka, a small settlement with a couple of teahouses will begin in the early morning. The trail will lead us downhill through the forested path of silver fir, blue pines, rhododendron, and some few magnolia and birch trees with great memories, and after crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi river trek onwards to the Sanasa. Then, we will re-track to Namche Bazaar for the overnight stay.
day
14

Trek from Namche to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), 6-7 hrs walk

6-7 Hrs Tea House Lukla 3 Meals
After a long walk, we'll have a long and last-day trek back to Lukla. Firstly, we will descend the long way before crossing the bridge. We will walk further till we reach Monju. Our next stop will be at the Phakding for lunch. We will trek back enjoying the lush green scenery around and passing through the incredible mountain scenery. You will also get a chance to explore the local Sherpa village. After arrival in Lukla, you'll have time to stroll around the areas. The guide will re-confirm your flight ticket. You can enjoy the last celebration dinner with your crew member. Overnight at Hotel.
day
15

Flight back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265 ft)

27 Minutes Hotel Kathmandu Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
The flight time to Kathmandu will be scheduled in the morning normally because of the wind in the afternoon. Sometimes the flight time can be delayed due to bad weather and other reason which is beyond our control. Anyways, we will fly back to Kathmandu. After returning to Kathmandu, the guide will help you transfer to the hotel. You may have some time to relax after a long journey and take back your breath and rest at your hotel.
day
16

Departure from Kathmandu

20 Minutes Breakfast
You'll have free time for last-minute shopping that may include souvenirs, and gifts for your family, friends, or relatives until your departure flight/drive. You can also choose to commence any extra trips or activities you may have booked with us. If you are set for departing, you'll be transferred to the International Airport for your departure flight to your onward destination.

Island Peak Climbing Altitude Chart

Metres above sea level

Island Peak (Imja Tse) Climb — 16 Days altitude chart

What's covered

Inclusions & exclusions

Trip includes

  • All airport and hotel transportation by private vehicle in Kathmandu as per the itinerary suggested.
  • Deluxe twin-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (Alcoholic beverages are excluded)
  • Travel cost to and from Kathmandu to the destination
  • Full board meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) during the trek
  • Seasonal fruits during the trek are provided
  • Comfortable & clean accommodation on teahouse/lodge/tent during the trek
  • Government Registered Trek guide (English speaking, First Aid and eco trained), Sherpa porter (one porter for two trekkers)
  • All necessary paper works, entry fees, permits & TIMS card
  • Four seasonal sleeping bags, Nepal Vision Treks duffel bag, and trekking map ( sleeping bag to be returned after trip completion)
  • First aid exclusive medical kit bag
  • All government and local taxes

Trip excludes

  • Visa fees (You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu so (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)) International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Lunch and dinner apart from treks and except for welcome & fare well dinner (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled plan)
  • Any extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary plan
  • Travel and rescue insurance

Dates & Prices

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FAQ’s

What travelers often ask

How tall is the Island Peak?
The Island Peak is at a height of 6,160m, which can be easily ascended by the physically fit and enthusiastic person.
How long does it take to climb Island Peak?
The Island expedition is climbed for 19 days which includes all the days from the stay in Kathmandu to the trek. It is estimated that it takes 16 days for trekking.
Can beginners climb the Island Peak?
With the help of guides, a physically fit person who is passionate about the climb can climb Island Peak easily if he has some basic climbing skills.
Is Island Peak a technical climb?
Island Peak isn't a technical climb. The peak is achievable for most people if they have technical training. With the physical condition and excellent acclimatization, you can climb the Island peak.
Do I need to have a permit to climb Island Peak?
Yes, climbing peaks in Nepal require a climbing permit issued by the government. The permit fee varies depending on the peak, duration, and the number of climbers.
When is the best time for the Island Peak Climbing in Nepal?
The best time for Island Peak Climbing is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, which offer stable weather conditions and clear visibility.
What are the risks involved in the Island Peak Climb?
Island Peak Climbing involves certain risks, such as altitude sickness, weather changes, avalanches, rockfalls, and crevasses. It is essential to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines.
Do I need to hire a guide or porter for Island Peak climbing?
It is advisable to hire a licensed guide and porter for peak climbing in Nepal. They will assist you with navigation, camping, cooking, and carrying loads, allowing you to focus on climbing.
Where can I get my Nepal Visa?
You can apply for the Nepali Visa online and get to the airport with a filled printed form. If you filled out the online form, you can get the visa form on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. You can get the booths at the Tribhuvan International Airport where you can fill out the forms that will be processed shortly later. After that, you will get your on-arrival visa within a few hours of your arrival. You will need a passport and some passport photos along with cash for the procedure.
How much will it cost to get a Nepalese Visa?
The Nepalese Visa cost completely depends on the number of days you will be staying in Nepal. The cost of the Visa increases as per the number of days. An additional number of days require extra fees. The normal cost for the Visa as per the number of days is listed below:

15 days cost USD 30

30 days cost USD 50

90 days cost USD 125

Additional days cost USD 45 for 15 additional days while every extra day from that costs USD 3 per day.

Can I adjust the itinerary?
The routes decided for the Expedition have been decided by professional guides with the team. This is the safest route with the best views and covers most of the popular attractions. If you want to make changes to your itinerary, you can consult with the guides and adjust a few things in the itinerary as long as it does not hamper the safety of the crew and yourself included.
What are the difficulties faced during the Island Peak Climb?
There are some difficulties you will face during the expedition. Some of the basic difficulties you may face during this expedition are:

  • Chances of altitude sickness due to the high altitude gain.
  • Unexpected weather plays a difficulty during your climb
  • Difficult technical sessions
Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, you must take travel insurance when you are traveling to high-altitude regions. If you are going mountaineering to peaks above 5000 meters, you must take your travel insurance and climbing insurance. Your travel insurance will pay for your rescue in case of emergencies.
Do I need to buy all the climbing gear and equipment?
If you want, you can buy climbing gear and equipment for personal use in the future. But if you choose not to buy the gear, you can always rent the gear and equipment from the company.
Will I get altitude sickness during the climb?
There is a high chance of altitude sickness during your Climb. The altitude gain during the climb is fast. This might cause your body to get altitude sickness. You can take proper breaks during your climb to prevent altitude sickness. Also, during the climb, you must acclimatize after reaching each camp to avoid any altitude sickness. This will help prevent symptoms. But you should always carry some medicines to counter the symptoms just in case.
How much do I tip the staff during the climb?
The staff does expect you to tip them for their service. However, you should feel pressured. You should tip them 10 percent of their charge for their service.
What are the accommodations during the climbing period?
The accommodations during the trekking part of the expedition are mostly in the tea houses and lodges. Once you get to the base camp of the peak, your accommodation will change into the tented camps. Make sure you bring warm clothes along with warm sleeping bags on the nights so that you won’t get very cold at high altitudes.
What happens in case of emergencies?
In case of any emergencies, you have to communicate with your trekking or climbing guide so that you get help from professionals as they will know exactly what to do in any situation. If you are out of breath due to oxygen deficiency, they will provide you with oxygen and call for emergency rescue if the case is serious. Trust the guide and communicate with them in case of any emergency.
How tall is the Island Peak?
Island Peak (Imja Tse) stands at 6,189 m (20,305 ft). It is a trekking peak that requires good fitness and basic climbing skills.
How long does it take to climb Island Peak?
This itinerary takes 16 days from arrival in Kathmandu to departure, with the summit day on day 10.

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