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Group Size2
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GeographyMountain/ Forest/ Village
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DifficultyModerate
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Max Altitude6,189 m
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AccommodationHotel/ Lodge/ Tent Camp
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TransportationHotel/ Lodge/ Tent Camp
Island peak (6,187 m) is one of the popular choices for climbing peaks in the Nepali Himalaya. Island peak is located in Imja valley in the Everest region near the Mount Everest. Island Peal is also known as Imja Tse by the Nepalese. The mountain was named island peak due to its appearance as an island on a sea of ice from far away. From the high point of Island peak, it offers awe-inspiring spectacular panorama view of mountains like Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,501m), Lhotse central (8,410m) and Lhotse Shar (8,383m), Makalu (8475m), Baruntse (7129m) in the east, and Amadablam (6812m) in the south.
Nepal is the country with 8 highest mountains above 8000 meters, Himalayan peaks have drawn many adventures and a large number of climbers every year. To climb this peak, one doesn’t require advanced climbing skills. Any trekkers or climbers who want to experience mountain climbing looking for a good challenge and thrill adventure, island peak is best for them. Island peak is mainly climbed for the practice of mountaineering skills before climbing other giant mountains.
Island peak trek offers stunning panorama view of Himalayan peaks in the world. Walking through the alpine village of Lukla, this expedition takes trekkers through the beautiful lake in the Gokyo valley, visit Everest base camp, cross the Renjo La (5360m), Cho La (5420 m), and Kongma La (5535 m) and climb Kalapatthar. Trekkers also take through traditional Sherpa village, famous monastery Tengboche and get to experience the unique culture of local Sherpa people. The climb to Island peak Summit is along the rock ridge to a glacier. Upon reaching the top of Island peak, trekkers will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of gigantic mountains offering the best satisfaction that every climber dream of.
The climb to Island Peak requires some technical climbing skills, such as using crampons and ice axes, and therefore, it is recommended that climbers have prior mountaineering experience. The summit of Island Peak stands at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Amble Himalaya – run and led by women, is the leading trekking organizer in Kathmandu, providing the best services and unforgettable memories. Our client’s safety is utmost concern for us. We provide our client with necessary gears and equipment’s so they can have best Himalayan experience. We offer package according to the choice of our clients.
Trip Highlights
- Stunning Himalayan Views: The trek to Island Peak offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
- Challenging Climbing Experience: Island Peak is a challenging climb that requires some technical skills, such as using crampons and ice axes. Climbers will have the opportunity to test their mountaineering abilities in a stunning setting.
- Sherpa Culture and Hospitality: The trek to Island Peak takes trekkers through Sherpa villages, where they can experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Sherpa people.
- Khumbu Glacier: The trek to Island Peak involves crossing the Khumbu Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the world, which offers stunning views of ice formations and surrounding mountains.
- High-Altitude Adventure: The Island Peak Expedition takes climbers to high-altitude environments, providing a unique adventure experience and a sense of achievement upon reaching the summit.
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Fly to Lukla (2,800m) then trek to Phakding (2,652m): 30 min flight, 3-4 hours trek
Day 02: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m): 5-6 hours
Day 03: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m): Acclimatization Day
Day 04: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m) (5- 6 hours)
Day 05: Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m) (3-4 hours)
Day 06: Dingbuche to Chhukung (4730m) (2 hours)
Day 07: Chhukung to Island Peak base camp (5,200m): 3-4 hours
Day 08: Island Peak base camp to Island Peak summit (6,189m), back to base camp: 10-12 hours
Day 09: Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche (3,985m) 5-6 hours
Day 10: Pangboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m): 4-5 hours
Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m): 6-7 hours
Day 12: Fly to Kathmandu (30 minutes)
Island Peak Expedition Itinerary
On Day 1 of the Everest Expedition, you will fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The flight is considered one of the most scenic in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Lukla, you will meet your team of Sherpa guides, porters, and other support staff. You'll have a chance to rest and prepare for the trek ahead, and to check your gear and equipment. From Lukla, you'll begin a short trek to Phakding, a small village located at an altitude of around 8,500 feet (2,600 meters). The trek takes you through beautiful forests and along the Dudh Koshi River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You'll spend the night in a tea house in Phakding, where you'll have a chance to rest, eat a hot meal, and acclimatize to the altitude. The tea house accommodations are basic but comfortable, with communal sleeping areas and shared bathrooms.
you'll continue your trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, a bustling village at an altitude of around 11,300 feet (3,450 meters). The trek takes around 5-6 hours and follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through traditional Sherpa villages. You'll climb steadily uphill, gaining around 2,800 feet (850 meters) in elevation. As you approach Namche Bazaar, you'll see stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Namche Bazaar is a lively village, with markets, restaurants, and cafes, and is considered the gateway to the Khumbu region. You'll spend the night in a tea house in Namche Bazaar, which is also known as Gateway to Everest.
Namche is a picturesque town inhabited by Sherpa people and is also the major trading hub of Khumbu region. Adjusting to high altitude, you will visit the Sherpa Museum which has the protected architecture and artifacts of the Sherpa culture before the influence of tourism in the region. You can also take a short hike to the nearby villages of Khumjung and Khunde, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can also visit the Khumjung Monastery, which houses a sacred relic believed to be a scalp of a Yeti. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
you'll continue your trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, a small village located at an altitude of around 12,700 feet (3,870 meters). The trek takes around 5-6 hours and follows a gradual uphill trail, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. You'll pass through several small villages and cross the Imja Khola river before reaching Tengboche. Tengboche is a beautiful village known for its Buddhist monastery, which is the largest in the Khumbu region. The monastery is set against the backdrop of the stunning Ama Dablam peak and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Upon reaching Tengboche, you will visit Tengboche Monastery which is regarded as the most sacred monastery by the Sherpas of Khumbu region. The whitewashed monastery is surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas, making it a mesmerizing sight. You'll spend the night in a tea house in Tengboche
Passing across Chortens, Mani walls, and small Sherpa villages relishing the view of the white beauty Ama Dablam (6856m), you will trek through rhododendron forest, en route to Dingboche. The trek takes around 5-6 hours and follows a trail that gradually climbs uphill, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You'll pass through several small villages, including Pangboche, which is home to one of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu region. As you approach Dingboche, you'll see stunning views of the Imja Valley and the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam and Lhotse. Dingboche is a small village with several tea houses and lodges, and is a popular stop for trekkers and climbers on their way to Everest Base Camp. Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 6 of the Island Peak Expedition involves trekking from Dingbuche to Chhukung, which takes approximately 2 hours. The trek involves a gradual climb along the Imja Khola river, with stunning views of Ama Dablam and other surrounding peaks. Upon reaching Chhukung, trekkers will have the opportunity to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude before continuing the trek to Island Peak Base Camp. Chhukung is a small Sherpa village that offers basic accommodations and a few small shops selling snacks and souvenirs. Overnight in Hotel.
Day 7 of the Island Peak Expedition involves trekking from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. The trek involves crossing the Lhotse Glacier and passing through a rocky trail with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The trek ascends the steep trail climbing south then turning east to the main line of the valley. The trail then leads to the winding path of the moraine that flow from Lhotse Glacier. We walk through the crisis cross route of Imja leading to the Island Peak Base Camp Upon reaching Island Peak Base Camp, climbers will set up their tents and prepare for the climb ahead. The base camp is located at an altitude of 5,200 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight in tented camp.
On this most awaited day, you will start early in the morning to climb up Island peak (6, 189 m). The climb involves crossing a glacier and climbing a steep slope, with sections of fixed ropes and ladders to assist in the ascent. Climbers will need to use crampons and ice axes for the majority of the climb, and the use of ropes and safety equipment is essential. Upon reaching the summit, climbers will be rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. They will also have the opportunity to take photos and celebrate their achievement before beginning the descent back to the base camp. The descent usually takes around 4-5 hours, with a return journey to the base camp for a well-deserved rest and celebration. Climbers will also have a debriefing with their guide to discuss the climb and reflect on the experience.
You will make our way back to Pangboche passing Chortens, Mani walls, and following the same trail through rhododendron and pine forest. We pass through various villages to reach suspension bridge above the Imja Khola River. Overnight in Pangboche.
You will continue to trek back to Namche Bazar, passing through Phungki Tenga, Sanasa and Kyangjuma enjoying the landscape and snow-capped mountains in the back. Overnight in Hotel.
Today you will trek for 6-7 hrs to reach Lukla descending through the steep trail. We walk back passing the Sherpa villages and through dense forest alongside the bank of Dudh Koshi enjoying the natural beauty. Overnight in Lukla.
You will take a 30-minute flight to Kathmandu.
Island Peak Expedition Included
- Private transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek.
- Standard Lodge/Guest House accommodation (best available) with twin sharing basis during the trek
- Accommodation in Tented Camp while on Island Peak Base Camp.
- Full Board Meals (3 Meals a day) while on the trek.
- Island Peak Climbing permits and TIMS Card fees.
- All necessary camping equipments; Tent, Table & Chair for climbing expedition's crew's.
- Professional & highly expertise government licensed holder local Trekking/Climbing Guide.
- 2:1 Ratio porter carrying 30KG.
- All expenses of the staffs (Guides/Porters) that includes Food, Accommodation, Salary, Insurance, Equipment during your travel period.
- All the necessary trekking gear for porters like jacket /trousers, trekking shoes, gloves, shocks, sunglasses etc.
- Friends Adventure Team's Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Walking Poles and Duffel Bag, to be return after trip completed.
- Comprehensive First Aid Kit.
- Arrangement of all rescue and evacuation promptly, in Worst Condition
- Island Peak Climbing group climbing gear, climbing rope, snow bars & carabineers etc.
- Trekking Map, Friends Adventure Team's special Souvenir.
- Agency service charge.
Island Peak Expedition Excluded
- Any packed food/snacks, aerated drinks, energy drinks, mineral water, alcohol, cigarettes, chocolates, nutria-bars.
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
- All desserts, sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Items of personal nature, Laundry Expenses, Tips.
- Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears.
- Any additional staff other than specified.
- Medical and Travel Insurance and Emergency rescue by any means of Transportation including Helicopter evacuation if required.
- Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests and Hospitalization expenses.
- Airfare of international flights.
- Nepal entry visa fee (Visa issuance is easy at the arrival).
- Hot shower and battery charging on the tea houses.
- Any other item not included in "Cost Includes" Section.
General Packing List
Climbing Gear:
- Climbing boots (double-layered and insulated for cold weather)
- Crampons
- Ice axe
- Climbing harness
- Carabiners
- Helmet
- Ropes
- Ascender and descender devices
- Trekking poles
Clothing:
- Base layer tops and bottoms (synthetic or wool)
- Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)
- Hardshell waterproof and breathable jacket and pants
- Gloves (liner gloves, insulated gloves, and shell gloves)
- Hat (warm and windproof)
- Sunglasses with UV protection and side shields
- Gaiters
Camping Gear:
- High-altitude tent
- Sleeping bag (rated for below freezing temperatures)
- Sleeping pad
- Stove and fuel
- Cooking utensils
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Solar charger or extra batteries for electronics
Personal Gear:
- Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 30+)
- Personal first aid kit with medications for altitude sickness and common illnesses
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
- Trekking towel
- Sunglasses with UV protection and side shields
- Camera and memory cards
Miscellaneous:
- Cash (Nepali rupees and Chinese yuan)
- Passport and necessary permits and visas
- Maps and guidebooks
- Repair kit for equipment and clothing
- Trash bags
- Communication devices (satellite phone or radio)
It’s important to note that this is a general packing list and may need to be adjusted based on individual needs and preferences.
Island Peak Expedition FAQ's
Though Island peak climbing is not technically challenging, it is physically demanding and is graded as Alpine PD+. This strenuous plus expedition rises to an altitude of 6189m / 20,305 feet and walks through steep and narrow trails and glacial moraines. While you will be provided with acclimatization days, one needs to be physically fit to take on this trek.
Island Peak is a strenuous plus trek which involves trekking as well as climbing with all the expedition equipment’s. Previous climbing experience certainly helps, but no prior experience is required for Island Peak climbing. Moreover, at Island Peak base camp, our climbing Sherpa will organize a special session on climbing skills and the use of climbing equipment’s. Some cardio and regular walks will certainly help prior to your arrival in Kathmandu. However, anyone with pre-medical history needs to seek medical consent before considering the expedition.
We strongly suggest you to have an all-inclusive travel insurance policy covering all the aspects of your adventure. However, we ensure you that there would be hardly any evacuations or any health catastrophe as your leader is medically trained and has ample knowledge to deal with any life threatening situation. But it's always wise to have insurance as your back up.
As for Island Peak climbing, you would need special Island Peak climbing permit along with (Everest) Sagarmatha National Park permits, and TIMS card (trekking information management system). We obtain these entire permit and travel documents for you.
Acute mountain sickness is a negative health effect of high altitude caused by your body’s reaction to a shortage of oxygen. The amount of oxygen present at sea level is double of that contained at 5,000m above the sea-level. Your body needs sufficient time to adjust your breathing to the higher altitude. Above 2,800m, the effect of high altitude is experienced. Symptoms of AMS are headache, nausea, loss of appetite, coughing, and fatigue. If you’re feeling any of these while trip, rest and discontinue your trip for that day. If your health is getting worse while resting, return back to lower altitude. You should rest until you feel okay. Then, you can continue your trip. You can always abandon your trip if you’re not able to complete it. Let your guide know if you are having troubles during the trip and act on his advice.
The best time for Island Peak Climbing is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons when the weather is clear and stable. The winter months (December to February) can be very cold and the summer months (June to August) can be rainy and cloudy.
Trekkers need to bring specialized mountaineering equipment such as a climbing harness, ice axe, crampons, and a helmet. They also need to bring warm clothing, a sleeping bag, and other trekking essentials such as a backpack, trekking poles, and water bottles.
It is highly recommended to have a guide for Island Peak Climbing. A guide can provide technical climbing support and knowledge of the local terrain and culture. They can also provide safety support in case of emergency.
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Group Size2
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GeographyMountain/ Forest/ Village
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DifficultyModerate
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Max Altitude6,189 m
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AccommodationHotel/ Lodge/ Tent Camp
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TransportationHotel/ Lodge/ Tent Camp