Island Peak
Photo Credit: “Nepal – Island Peak – 023 – Island Peak summit headwall” by mckaysavage
Expedition Details
Altitude: 6,189m
Location: Nepal, Everest (Sagarmatha) Region
Estimated Price: $2,200-$3500
Number of days: ~16-22
Season:
The peak season for climbing Island Peak (Imja Tse) in Nepal is during the Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November), offering stable weather, clear skies, and good visibility, with Spring being busiest due to blossoming flowers and Autumn offering fewer crowds for great views; monsoon (June-August) is rainy, while winter (Dec-Feb) is extremely cold and snowy, suited for experienced climbers.
A typical Island Peak climb itinerary lasts 15-18 days, starting with a flight to Lukla and trekking through the Everest region, including acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. The route then continues to Island Peak Base Camp, followed by the summit push, and a return trek to Lukla and finally Kathmandu.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, followed by a hotel transfer and a welcome dinner.
Day 2: Kathmandu – Briefing and Preparation: A day for rest, sightseeing, and a briefing on the climbing expedition, including necessary preparations.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla & Trek to Phakding: Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and then trek for about 3-4 hours to Phakding.
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar: Trek for 5-6 hours to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant capital of the Sherpa region.
Day 5: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization: A rest day in Namche for acclimatization, with opportunities for local sightseeing and short hikes.
Day 6: Trek to Tengboche/Deboche: A trek to Tengboche or Deboche, visiting the famous Tengboche Monastery.
Day 7: Trek to Dingboche: Trek for 5-6 hours to Dingboche, located at the confluence of two valleys, with spectacular views of Island Peak.
Day 8: Dingboche Acclimatization: Another acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the high altitude.
Day 9: Trek to Chhukung: A shorter trek to Chhukung (4,730m/15,518ft), which serves as the gateway to Island Peak.
Day 10: Acclimatize & Train at Chhukung: An acclimatization day with training on techniques for climbing Island Peak.
Day 11: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp: Trek for 3-4 hours to reach Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m/17,060ft).
Day 12: Summit Day: An early morning start for the summit push, followed by a descent to Island Peak Base Camp or further down to Chhukung.
Day 13: Trek to Pangboche: Descend from Base Camp to Pangboche (3,985m).
Day 14: Trek back to Namche Bazaar from Pangboche.
Day 15: Trek to Lukla: A longer trek back to Lukla, where you will spend your last night in the mountains.
Day 16: Fly to Kathmandu: Fly from Lukla back to Kathmandu.
Day 17: Departure: Final international departure from Kathmandu.