
Island Peak Climbing- 18 Days
Island Peak Climbing is an ideal high-altitude adventure for those aiming to scale greater Himalayan peaks. Standing tall at 6,189 meters, it offers epic views of Everest and Lhotse.
Nepal
18 Days
Moderate To Strenuous
Island Peak Summit (6,189 m / 20,299 ft)
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Hotels, Teahouses & Tent Camp
Included
Kathmandu
Trip Highlights
- Magnificent view of the towering peaks of Mt. Everest and Lhotse
- Visit Tengboche Monastery at 3,870 meters
- Enjoy the splendid panoramic view of the Himalayas from the summit
- Reach 6,189 meters above sea level in a short duration
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Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is located in the Everest region in Imja Valley, south of Dingboche village. It is a highly sought-after and well-renowned peak in the Everest region. Climbers who aspire to summit Mt. Everest often climb Island Peak first as part of their preparation. The peak is situated just behind the towering giants Everest and Lhotse, standing at a height of 6,189 meters. It is famous for its incredible view of Mt. Everest from the summit. Sir Edmund Hillary also climbed Island Peak before his historic ascent of Everest. This popular peak attracts hundreds of thousands of climbers from all over the world.
The trip to Island Peak can be combined with the Everest Base Camp trek and the Three Passes Trek, depending on your schedule and interests. A professional climbing guide and proper climbing gear are essential for this climb. Due to changes in the route structure caused by global warming in recent years, it is crucial to choose your climbing company wisely. Be careful when selecting the best season to climb, as the weather can be unpredictable. It is advisable to take suggestions from expedition experts before signing up for the trip. Plan your next adventure for an exhilarating experience near the top of the world.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
- Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation
- Day 3: Kathmandu to Lukla by flight, Trek To Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft): 4-5 hrs
- Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,286 ft): 6-7 hrs
- Day 5: Acclimatization Day
- Day 6: Namche to Phortse (3,850 m/12,628 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 7: Phortse to Dingboche (4,410 m/14,468 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 8: Dingboche to Chhukung (4,750 m/15,580 ft): 3-4 hrs
- Day 9: Acclimatization and Pre-Climbing Training Day
- Day 10: Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,120 m/16,793 ft): 3-4 hrs
- Day 11: Base Camp to Island Peak Summit (6,189 m/20,299 ft) and Back to Chhukung: 10-12 hrs
- Day 12: Extra day for weather challenges
- Day 13: Chhukung to Pangboche (3,950 m/12,956 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 14: Pangboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,008 ft): 6-7 hrs
- Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860 m/9,383 ft): 6-7 hrs
- Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu
- Day 17: Free Day
- Day 18: Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
After arriving at the airport we will be welcomed by a representative of Ama adventure. Furthermore, check-in at the hotel, and if time permits, you can explore the surroundings. In the evening, we will have a meeting and briefing.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation
After breakfast, you will head towards Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this ancient stupa is one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal. Believed to have been self-created, it holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley, surrounded by prayer flags, shrines, and playful monkeys that give the site its nickname.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 3: Kathmandu to Lukla by flight, Trek To Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft): 4-5 hrs
Early in the morning, we will fly to Lukla, which takes around 35 minutes. We start trekking to Phakding through some settlements, settlements, farmland, and Buddhist chortens. The trek also crosses few suspension bridges and stunning views as it follows the Dudh Koshi River.
Max Altitude :
Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft)
Trip Duration :
4-5 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Phakding
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,286 ft): 6-7 hrs
Today we trek to Namche Bazaar on the Bank of the Dudhkoshi river. We pass the pine forest that goes north up the Benkar village. After crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudhkoshi river, we reach the Monjo village, which is the entrance point of the Sagarmatha National Park. We then pass several villages like Benker, Chumoa, Manjo, Jorasalle along with suspension bridges. After lunch the trail gets steeper but it offers the first look of Everest and amazing river valley views and virtues of faunas.
Max Altitude :
Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,286 ft)
Trip Duration :
6-7 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Namche Bazaar
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 5: Acclimatization Day
Namche Bazaar is the primary administrative town for the Khumbu region with all facilities located west of the Dudh Koshi River. For Acclimatization, we Hike up to Sagarmatha National park to enjoy the spectacular view of (Chomolumba) Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Kongde, and many more. For gain, more altitude, and rest before the next ascent you can spend your day hiking to Everest viewpoint, an optional two-hour hike with an amazing view. Lunch will be in Khumjung, After Lunch a short visit around the village and back to Namche Bazar.
Max Altitude :
Everest Viewpoint (3,880 m/12,730 ft)
Trip Duration :
3-4 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Namche Bazaar
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 6: Namche to Phortse (3,850 m/12,628 ft): 5-6 hrs
After breakfast, we start climbing near Sagarmatha National Park, then continue along a wider trail with an amazing backdrop of Mt. Everest and other snowy peaks. We pass stunning rhododendron and pine forests to Tengboche. After Kyanjuma, we continue ascending to Upper Phunki Tenga for lunch. After lunch, we climb to Phortse. The Phortse village and monastery is one of the oldest monasteries. The Khumbu region offers panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Upon arrival, we visit the monastery to observe religious chanting. After an amazing day, overnight at a teahouse.
Max Altitude :
Phortse (3,850 m/12,628 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Phortse
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 7: Phortse to Dingboche (4,410 m/14,468 ft): 5-6 hrs
Today, we start trekking through an incredible cliffside trail, a forest that looks amazing during spring when it blooms. We cross the suspension bridge above the Dudh Koshi River and continue to Pangboche. Then we trek to Somare, our lunch spot. After lunch, the trail crosses the Lobuche River and then turns right into the Imja River valley. Dingboche is a small, beautiful village with farms of barley, potato, and buckwheat, along with animals grazing by the Imja Khola. Finally, we reach Dingboche for overnight.
Max Altitude :
Dingboche (4,410 m/14,468 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Dingboche
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 8: Dingboche to Chhukung (4,750 m/15,580 ft): 3-4 hrs
The trek to Chhukung begins along the bank of Imja Khola River valley through high-altitude yak pastureland with stone-walled fields. Along the way, we pass yak shelters offering stunning mountain and glacier views. The trek to Chhukung offers amazing views of Ama Dablam, Amphu peaks, and the mysterious Imja Khola valley. We walk on an ice stream for about an hour before reaching our destination. After lunch, we hike up to Chhukung Ri for acclimatization.
Max Altitude :
Chhukung (4,750 m/15,580 ft)
Trip Duration :
3-4 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Chhukung
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 9: Acclimatization and Pre-Climbing Training Day
After breakfast, we hike to Chhukung Ri (5,546 m/18,190 ft). The viewpoint offers mesmerizing views of the world’s highest peaks, including Makalu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. It is great to witness the sun’s rays across the Imja Valley over the Himalayas. After an amazing hike, we return to the lodge. After lunch, we conduct a short training session on Island Peak climbing techniques.
Max Altitude :
Chhukung Ri (5,546 m/18,190 ft)
Trip Duration :
4-5 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Chhukung
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 10: Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,120 m/16,793 ft): 3-4 hrs
We will head to Island Peak Base Camp, which is on the bank of Imja Lake. Before reaching base camp, there are two routes: one goes via Amphu Labsta Pass, and the other directly to Island Base Camp. We climb the moraine where the trail turns north to Imja Glacier moraine and continue to Island Base Camp for an overnight stay in a tent camp.
Max Altitude :
Island Peak Base Camp (5,120 m/16,793 ft)
Trip Duration :
3-4 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Island Peak Base Camp
Accomodation :
Tent Camp
Day 11: Base Camp to Island Peak Summit (6,189 m/20,299 ft) and Back to Chhukung: 10-12 hrs
Early this morning, we climb Island Peak with climbing gear. This sacred region offers panoramic views from the summit. After spending an amazing time at the top, we return to Island Base Camp and continue back to Chhukung for overnight.
Max Altitude :
Island Peak Summit (6,189 m/20,299 ft)
Trip Duration :
10-12 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Chhukung
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 12: Extra day for weather challenges
Today is an extra day reserved for weather challenges because sometimes we cannot summit as planned. In these situations, we attempt the summit on this day.
Max Altitude :
Chhukung (4,750 m/15,580 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Chhukung
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 13: Chhukung to Pangboche (3,950 m/12,956 ft): 5-6 hrs
Today, we have a late breakfast, then start trekking around 10 AM. We trek to Pangboche via Dingboche and overnight at Pangboche.
Max Altitude :
Pangboche (3,950 m/12,956 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Pangboche
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 14: Pangboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,008 ft): 6-7 hrs
The trek to Namche Bazaar continues the descent to Tengboche and Phunki Tenga, leading through the Khumbu Valley, Bhote Koshi River, and beautiful forests. The return to Namche Bazaar is easier, passing through rhododendron forests and climbing for an hour to the village of Changsha. The walk to Namche Bazaar is very scenic on a long, winding path.
Max Altitude :
Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,008 ft)
Trip Duration :
6-7 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Namche Bazaar
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860 m/9,383 ft): 6-7 hrs
Trekking from Namche Bazaar to Lukla is the last day of your trek. It starts with a steep descent and moderate traffic where you are always safe. The trek passes through beautiful small villages such as Jorsalle, Monjo, and Phakding, with short ascents and continues down the handrails of the Bhotekoshi River, crossing it three times. Before reaching Lukla, you ascend a gentle slope for 45 minutes to the final destination. After a long day, rest overnight at Lukla.
Max Altitude :
Lukla (2,860 m/9,383 ft)
Trip Duration :
6-7 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Lukla
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we hope to get an early flight back to Kathmandu. The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu takes 35 minutes. Then, we drive back to the Kathmandu hotel, which normally takes about an hour, and check in to rest.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
Trip Duration :
35-minute flight + 1 hr drive
Meals :
Breakfast
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 17: Free Day
Today is the second last day in Nepal before departure. If you need to buy gifts for family and friends, today is the day.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 18: Departure
Today is the final day of our trip. The Ama Adventure representative will drop you at the airport, wish you a safe journey, and hope to see you on your next adventure.
Meals :
Breakfast
Important Note on Itinerary and Lukla Flights
Our regular itinerary may change slightly due to factors beyond our control, such as weather conditions, flight delays or cancellations, natural events, government regulations, political issues, or health concerns. In such situations, we always work to find the best possible alternatives to keep the trek moving forward. Your patience and flexibility during these times are greatly appreciated.
We highly recommend adding at least two extra days to your schedule after the trek. Flights to and from Lukla are often delayed or canceled due to weather, and these buffer days help avoid issues with your international travel plans. You can also choose to customize your trip with extra sightseeing in Kathmandu, adventure activities, or short trips around Nepal before or after the trek.
Lukla Flight Update
Please note: During peak trekking seasons (March, April, May, September, October, and November), flights to Lukla operate from Ramechhap/Manthali Airport, which requires a 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu due to heavy air traffic. In non-peak months (January, February, June, July, August, and December), flights usually depart directly from Kathmandu.
The choice of departure point is made by the airline and depends on travel volume at the time. Weather, air traffic, and the challenging terrain around Lukla are the main reasons for flight delays or cancellations. Adding a day or two to your itinerary gives you a cushion in case of such disruptions and helps ensure a smooth return for your international flight.
Gallery
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Accommodation
- 4-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin/double-sharing basis with breakfast
- Teahouse & Tent Camp during the trek (twin-sharing)
Meals & Drinking Water
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
- One hot drink per meal and seasonal fruits
- Farewell dinner on the final night in Nepal
- Purified drinking water throughout the trek (via water filter or purification tablets)
Transportation
- All ground transportation
- Kathmandu to Lukla roundtrip flight
Guide & Support Staff
- Licensed, experienced, English-speaking trekking guide (2 guides for groups of 7 or more)
- Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- All staff’s wages, accommodation, meals, insurance, gear, and medication
Permits & Entry Fees
- Sagarmatha/Everest National Park Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
- Island Peak Climbing Permit
Health & Safety
- Comprehensive first aid kit
- Daily health checks with a pulse oximeter to monitor altitude-related symptoms
Extras & Souvenirs
- Trekking map, duffel kit bag, sun hat, and a trip completion certificate
Administrative
- All government taxes and administrative fees
What is Excluded
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- International airfare and airport departure taxes
- All kinds of beverages (including bottled and boiled water)
- Travel insurance- must include high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Tips for the trekking staff and driver (optional but appreciated)
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Any other expenses not listed under the “Inclusions” section
- Nepal Entry Visa
Trip Departure
We organize both solo and group trips to help make your adventure a lifetime memory, shared with people from all over the world. Once your trip is confirmed, we guarantee all group departure dates, even if only one person has signed up for the trek. Before you make your final booking, we always confirm the current number of members in your group.
Difficulty Level
Climbing Island Peak requires basic technical skills and involves high altitudes, demanding a high level of physical fitness. Expect to hike for 5 to 10 hours daily, gaining significant elevation.
Dates & Prices
All listed departures are guaranteed. If these dates don’t work for you, we can arrange a trip that fits your schedule. Just let us know your preferred timing and the kind of journey you’re looking for, and we’ll help you plan a custom trip to your chosen destination.
Meals
During the trek, we’ll enjoy a mix of local Nepali food and popular international dishes such as Tibetan, Continental, Italian, and Indian. Breakfast and dinner will be served at the tea houses or lodge menus where we stay overnight, while lunches will be provided en route to our next destination. During the trek, all meals are included. In Kathmandu, breakfast is provided, and farewell dinner will be arranged for our guests.
Accommodation
In Kathmandu, we will stay at Hotel Manaslu. During the trek, we’ll stay in local teahouses and tent camps. All accommodations are on a twin-sharing basis. A single room can be arranged on request for an extra cost of USD 290. While we’ll book the best available tea houses, please note that the facilities may be quite basic compared to the more developed routes. Single rooms are generally available in Kathmandu, but they might not be possible to find during the trek.
Weather Information
The Everest region’s weather is highly unpredictable, with conditions ranging from warm sun to rain, fog, or freezing cold, even in a single day. While each day can vary, seasonal trends help trekkers plan. Spring (March-June) offers clear skies and blooming trails, with temperatures from 25°C to -15°C. Monsoon (July-mid-September) brings rain and fewer crowds, while autumn (late September-November) provides crisp views and cooler weather. Winter (December-February) is the coldest, with temperatures dropping to -20°C, but still offers beautiful mountain vistas.
Important Notes
Your safety is our priority while traveling with Ama Adventure. Stay flexible as needed:
Flights to Lukla are often delayed. If a flight is canceled due to weather conditions, please be prepared for alternative plans.
Your trip leader has the authority to change itineraries based on local conditions and their judgment.
We reserve the right to modify the itinerary due to medical considerations, unexpected weather conditions, natural disasters, etc.
Our leader and crew always strive to make your trip comfortable and ensure that it runs according to plan.
Packing List
Here is a suggested packing list to help you prepare for the trek. You’ll need warmer layers during colder months. Ama Adventure provides a 75-liter duffel bag at the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu-yours to keep. Sleeping bags and down jackets are available to rent in Kathmandu for USD 35 each.
General
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag
- Heavy/medium down jacket (-20 degrees)
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap
- Synthetic Knitted hat/Beanie
- Woolen hat
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Scarf/Neck Gaiter/Buff (highly recommended)
- Insulation
Torso
- Moisture-wicking base layers- lightweight for warmer seasons, thermal for colder months
- Two short-sleeve and two long-sleeve trekking shirts made of quick-dry technical fabric
- Windproof and waterproof outer shell or jacket
- Warm fleece jacket or pullover for added insulation
Lower Body
- Thermal base layers- lightweight for warm months, heavier for cold conditions
- Two pairs of durable hiking pants
- Comfortable pants for relaxing inside teahouses
- Waterproof and windproof shell pants for protection against rain and wind
- One pair of hiking shorts (ideal for lower altitudes and warm days)
Hands
- Liner gloves made of wool or technical fabric for warmth and flexibility
- Insulated outer gloves with a hard shell- ideal for wind and cold at higher altitudes
Feet
- Warm socks made of wool or technical fabric
- Hiking socks (several pairs recommended)
- Optional liner socks (e.g., silk) for added comfort and blister prevention
- Waterproof trekking/hiking boots- well broken-in before the trek
- Ice Cleats or Micro Spikes (recommended from November to March for icy trails)
- Comfortable casual shoes or sandals for teahouse use
- Gaiters- lightweight for dust or heavier ones for snow in cold months
Undergarments
- Quick-drying, moisture-wicking underwear (technical fabric recommended)- adjust quantity based on personal preference
- Sports bras (for women)- supportive and breathable
- Pajamas or comfortable sleepwear for chilly nights in the mountains
First Aid Kits and Medications
Note: Guides carry medications and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are highly recommended.
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Antiseptic or soothing ointment
- Personal medications (for altitude, allergies, pain relief, etc.)
Other Essentials
- Valid passport
- Extra passport-sized photos (for permits or emergency use)
- Airline tickets (leave a copy with our office in Kathmandu)
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or UV water purifier
- Lightweight towel
- Pillowcase (for hygiene in teahouses)
- Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, etc.)
- Toilet paper (2 rolls minimum)
- High-protein snacks (nuts, energy/protein bars)
- Waterproof/dry bags to protect documents and valuable
Optional
(These can enhance your comfort during the trek and are widely available in Thamel, Kathmandu)
- Guide Book
- Power bank or spare batteries
- Hand sanitizer
- Energy Bars
- Dry Shampoo
- Outlet Adapter
- Whistle (for safety/emergency use)
- Thermos (to carry hot water/tea during cold days)
- Yaktrax especially for fall and early spring season
- Camera and mobile phone (for capturing memories)
- Pillowcase (for hygiene in teahouses)
- Trekking Poles (highly recommended for stability)
- Pee bottle or pee funnel (especially useful for women at high altitudes)
Tip: Thamel is full of gear shops where you can purchase or rent trekking essentials at a reasonable price once you’re in Kathmandu.
Documents and Logistics
- Flight Information
- Original Passport
- Photocopy of Passport
- Passport size photo for Tims and permit (4)
- Medical Insurance Card
- Airline tickets (leave a copy with our office in Kathmandu)
Dates of Trip
Group Discount Prices
Frequently Asked Questions
Traveler Reviews
