banner

Island Peak Climbing

Overview

Island Peak, also known locally as Imja Tse (6,189m), stands proudly in the heart of Nepal’s Everest region, offering one of the most rewarding and accessible Himalayan climbing experiences. Ideal for adventurous trekkers and aspiring mountaineers, Island Peak is the perfect introduction to high-altitude climbing, combining breathtaking scenery with technical challenges that are achievable with proper preparation.

The journey to Island Peak begins with an exhilarating trek through the iconic Khumbu Valley, passing legendary Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, and visiting sacred monasteries along the way. This trek not only provides crucial acclimatization but also immerses you in the rich culture and stunning landscapes of the Everest region. Before the final summit push, climbers often visit Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, further enhancing altitude adaptation and offering some of the world's most spectacular mountain views.

Climbing Island Peak itself requires the use of basic mountaineering techniques, such as the use of crampons, ropes, and ice axes, especially when crossing the glacier and tackling the steep headwall leading to the summit. Standing atop Island Peak, climbers are rewarded with unparalleled panoramic views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and even distant glimpses of Mount Everest.

Whether you are preparing for bigger Himalayan expeditions or seeking a thrilling standalone climb, Island Peak delivers a truly unforgettable adventure. With experienced guides, careful acclimatization, and strong logistical support, this climb offers a perfect balance of challenge, excitement, and breathtaking beauty.

climbing icon
line

Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal! After airport pickup, you’ll check into your hotel in Kathmandu. Depending on arrival time, you can relax or explore local heritage sites like Boudhanath or Thamel.

Max Alt. 1400m

Hotel

Breakfast

Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m) Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Meet your guide and expedition team. Today is for gear inspection, getting your Island Peak climbing permit, and final preparation. If needed, rental shops in Thamel provide technical gear like crampons, harnesses, and boots.

Max Alt. 1400m

Hotel

Breakfast

Climbing Briefing, Gear Check, and Permits Climbing Briefing, Gear Check, and Permits

Take a scenic 30-minute flight to Lukla, then trek 3–4 hours to Phakding. This easy day helps you adjust gradually to altitude.

Max Alt. 2860m

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Fly to Lukla (2,860 m), Trek to Phakding (2,610 m) Fly to Lukla (2,860 m), Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

Trek uphill along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges before a steep climb to Namche, the main trading town of the Khumbu region.

Max Alt. 3,440m

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Today, hike to Everest View Hotel or Khunde for altitude adjustment. Enjoy views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Lhotse. Return to Namche for the night.

Max Alt. 3,440 m

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Acclimatization Day in Namche Acclimatization Day in Namche

Trek through rhododendron forests to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, with views of Ama Dablam and Everest.

Max Alt. 3860m

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m) Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m)

Descend and cross the Imja Khola, then ascend to Pangboche, and finally to Dingboche, where you’ll stay for acclimatization.

Max Alt. 4,410 m

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m) Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m)

Take a hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,100 m) or explore the high valley. This rest helps prevent altitude sickness before heading to higher elevations.

Max Alt. 5,100m

Tea House

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Trek 2–3 hours to the small settlement of Chhukung. You’ll start seeing Island Peak and prepare for your base camp trek.

Max Alt. 4,730m

Trek to Chhukung (4,730 m) Trek to Chhukung (4,730 m)

Trek up a glacier moraine trail to Island Peak Base Camp, located beside a glacial lake. Settle into your tented camp and prepare for summit night.

Max Alt. 5,100m

Tented Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m) Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m)

You’ll receive pre-climb training from your guide: how to use harnesses, fixed ropes, carabiners, and crampons. This training is essential even for trekkers with previous experience.

Max Alt. 5,100m

Tented Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Climbing Training and Rest at Base Camp Climbing Training and Rest at Base Camp

Begin your summit attempt around 2:00 AM. The route includes a glacier, crevasse crossings, a steep headwall, and a final ice/snow climb using fixed ropes to the summit. Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Baruntse. Descend back to Chhukung for a well-deserved rest.

Max Alt. 6,189m

Tented Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Summit Island Peak (6,189 m), Return to Chhukung Summit Island Peak (6,189 m), Return to Chhukung

Retrace your steps back to Pangboche, a lovely village with mountain views and a historic monastery. This descent feels refreshing after the summit.

Max Alt. 3,440m

Tented Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Pangboche Trek to Pangboche

Continue your descent through rhododendron forests and Sherpa settlements. Reach Namche Bazaar for rest and a bit of celebration.

Max Alt. 3,440m

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Namche Bazaar Trek to Namche Bazaar

Trek back to Lukla, completing your Everest region circuit. Tonight is your last night in the Khumbu – a great time to celebrate with your team.

Max Alt. 2,860m

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek to Lukla Trek to Lukla

Take an early morning flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and relax. Optional: enjoy a Nepali cultural dinner show in the evening.

Max Alt. 1400m

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch

Fly Back to Kathmandu Fly Back to Kathmandu

Your expedition officially ends today. Transfer to the airport for your international flight, full of memories and mountains.

Max Alt. 1400m

Breakfast

Final Departure Final Departure

Cost Includes

All airport/hotel transfers

Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu

Accommodation in Kathmandu

Lodging & Fooding at the tea house and camp

Breakfast in Kathmandu.

All ground transportation as per the itinerary by private vehicles

All necessary staff with an experienced English-speaking climbing leader

Sherpa porters to carry luggage, including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging

All necessary paperwork, trekking permits, and Peak climbing permit 

Group mountaineering camping and climbing equipment- very high-quality North Face or Mountain Hardware, or similar kitchen, dining, toilet tents, mattresses, and kitchen equipment 

All government and local taxes

Cost Excludes

Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)

International airfare to and from Kathmandu

Excess baggage charges (if you have more than 20 kg of luggage, the cargo charge is around $ 2.5 per kg)

Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary

Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu(and also in the case of early return from the mountain, rather than the scheduled itinerary)

Travel and rescue insurance

Personal climbing equipment 

Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled water, shower, heater, etc.)

Optional trips and sightseeing if extended

Tips for guides and porters

Island Peak Climbing
Clothing and Footwear

Down jacket (expedition-rated) Thermal base layers (top & bottom) Insulated...

Visit Now

FAQs

Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse (6,189m), is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking peaks, located in the Everest region. It’s a favorite choice for climbers who want to gain high-altitude mountaineering experience.

Island Peak is considered a moderate to challenging climb. It requires basic mountaineering skills like using crampons, ropes, and ice axe. Prior trekking at high altitudes is highly recommended.

Yes, some climbing or high-altitude trekking experience is beneficial. While it’s often climbed by beginners, having knowledge of using climbing equipment makes the ascent safer and easier.

The standard trip takes 16–20 days, including trekking to Everest Base Camp or Chhukung for acclimatization, summit attempt, and return to Lukla.

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is stable and visibility is excellent.

Yes, since Island Peak is over 6,000m, altitude sickness is a risk. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a gradual itinerary help minimize the chances.

Similar Packages

Country

Nepal

Duration

40 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Manaslu Expedition

40 Days

|

Nepal

From $13500

Country

Nepal

Duration

38 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Mt. Baruntse Expedition

38 Days

|

Nepal

From $8500

Country

Nepal

Duration

19 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Lobuche Peak Expedition

19 Days

|

Nepal

From $2200

Country

Nepal

Duration

45 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Mt. Everest Expedition 2026

45 Days

|

Nepal

From $65000

Country

Nepal

Duration

18 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Mera Peak Climbing

18 Days

|

Nepal

From $2800

Country

Nepal

Duration

9 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Mardi Himal Trek

9 Days

|

Nepal

From $700

Country

Nepal

Duration

14 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Everest Base Camp Trek

14 Days

|

Nepal

From $1299

Country

Nepal

Duration

8 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Ama Dablam Express Expedition 2026

8 Days

|

Nepal

From $3800

Country

Nepal

Duration

20 Days

Booking Open

(2 Reviews)

Annapurna South Expedition

20 Days

|

Nepal

From $10500

Country

Nepal

Duration

45 Days

Booking Open

(3 Reviews)

Mount Lhotse Expedition

45 Days

|

Nepal

From $14999

Country

Nepal

Duration

3 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Mera Peak Climbing from Khare - 3 Days

3 Days

|

Nepal

From $650

Country

Nepal

Duration

12 Days

Booking Open

(2 Reviews)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek-12 Days

12 Days

|

Nepal

From $1300

Country

Nepal

Duration

3 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Island Peak Climbing from Chhukung - 3 Days

3 Days

|

Nepal

From $650

Country

Nepal

Duration

30 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Amadablam Expedition

30 Days

|

Nepal

From $5500

Country

Nepal

Duration

30 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Himlung Himal Expedition

30 Days

|

Nepal

From $6900

Country

Nepal

Duration

3 Days

Booking Open

(0 Review)

Lobuche East Peak Climbing from Lobuche - 3 Days

3 Days

|

Nepal

From $650