Island Peak Climbing

Duration: 20 Days / 19 Nights
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Style: Trekking
  • Transportation: Private Vehicle / Aeroplane
  • Meals: BLD (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Accommodation: Hotel, Lodge &Tent
  • Group Size: 1-24
  • Max Altitude: 6189m

Highlights of Island Peak Climbing

  • Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla
  • Hike to the base camp of the world’s highest mountain Everest
  • Kala Patthar for the breathtaking vistas of the Everest Summit and other peaks
  • The Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall
  • Sherpa lifestyle, culture and tradition
  • Flora and fauna of the world’s highest conservation area, Sagarmatha National Park
  • Lifetime achievement of Island Peak climbing
  • Mesmerizing view of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Lhotse and Mera Peak from the top of Island Peak

This peak in Khumbu rises prominently out of a level surface, just like a real island surrounded by water; except here, it’s surrounded by clouds on all sides. This is an introductory peak climbing in Nepal - combined with trekking in the Khumbu Region. You will get the best of both worlds in Nepal - trekking and climbing merged into one. This all-time popular program is fit for first-time climbers and also acts as a refresher for veteran climbers.

This trip offers several experiences in Nepal, one of them being a magical sunrise view from Kalapatthar - a Himalayan vantage point that no trekker to Khumbu misses. From the top of Kalapatthar, you will have incomparable views of the majestic Himalayas. This view is certainly a fascinating and memorable experience not just in this trip but in Nepal as a whole.

The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla followed by a trek to Phakding and on to Namche Bazaar. This iconic town in the Everest Region is popular and prosperous by many measures. It does not matter that being at one of the remote locations in Nepal, Namche still enjoys a footfall of thousands and thousands of trekkers every year who come to the Everest Region. It is in fact the de facto gateway to Everest Region. It has grown so popular that during high season, hotels and lodges have to be booked in advance, months before you even arrive here.

This global destination shows no sign of stagnation as you witness, even during off-season, the number of visitors keep the hotels and lodges occupied. Such is the vibrancy of this amphitheatre-like town. The colourful bazaars and shops sell everything you can think of - from metallic souvenirs, iced latte, oven-fresh pizza, Wi-Fi, and even high quality down jackets from North Face and Columbia. The trek will further take you to Tengboche, Pangboche, Dingboche and to the most popular destination in all of Everest Region - the Everest Base Camp. You will immerse in the sights and sounds of a thousand aspiring climbers before heading off to Island Peak and back to Lukla in this program.

Island Peak lies at the southern ridge of Lhotse-Shar over the Chhukung Glacier. On one side is the glorious peak of Ama Dablam and on the other, you will see the grand Lhotse itself. This adventure on the exotic location is coveted by several trekkers and climbers who scale this peak for satisfaction and the rewarding feeling of conquest. The challenging geographical conditions pose a perpetual desire for climbers to Island Peak. And although you do not need special climbing skills or technical know-how, you definitely need a desire and a good level of physical fitness to go on this exciting and challenging trip.

Located inside Sagarmatha National Park, a journey to Island Peak is also a peek into the Himalayan giants. You have the astounding view of Ama Dablam (6,812m), Cho-Oyu (8,201m), Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse, Pumori, Thamsherku and several mountains of Nepal. Lined by gorges and glacial valleys, the common vegetation found in this region are juniper, fir, birch, and rhododendron. As for the wildlife, you are likely to encounter the Himalayan Thar, musk deer, ghoral, danphe, hare, jackal, monkey, and even the elusive snow-leopard. The experienced team at Orbit Alpine Adventure will ensure that this program will be a success for you. With our always-aspiring and competent team that provides the best of service, we recommend this combined program of trekking and climbing in Nepal.

FAQs:

1. Where is Island Peak?

Island Peak lies in the Sagarmatha National Park in the Eastern Himalayas of Solukhumbu district. It stands in the middle of the Imja Lake just like an Egyptian Pyramid above the snow. Apart from icefalls, it is surrounded by the clouds high above. It is one of the trekking peaks of Nepal located in the Everest region trekking.

2. How long does it take to climb Island Peak?

To reach the summit of Island Peak (6,189m) from the High Camp, it takes nearly 3 hours. From the top of the peak, you have the amazing view of the Imja Valley and the snowcapped peaks of Everest region.

3. How difficult is Island Peak climbing?

The most challenging section of Island Peak climbing is to reach the elevation of 6,189m from 5,400m. You have to cover the steep trail to reach the top. Nevertheless, with a complete training, determination and acclimatization help you finally to it!

4. What is the cost of climbing Island Peak?

The cost of Island Peak climbing is really reasonable comparing the rewards you get after completion. Orbit Alpine Adventure provides this lifelong opportunity at the best reasonable cost. For more details, click www.orbitalpineadventure.com.

5. Which peaks can I see from the summit of Island Peak?

From the summit Of Island Peak, you can have the astounding view of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Lhotse and Mera Peak. However, you cannot see the summit of Mt. Everest as it hides just behind Mt. Lhotse.

6. Which is the best season for peak climbing in Nepal?

In fact, spring is the best season for peak climbing in Nepal due to the warm weather favorable for stable snow level. Spring in Nepal runs in March April and May when most of the peaks including the Great Himalayas are climbed. Nonetheless, the adventure lovers attempt to do it in October and November as well.

 

Day to Day Itinerary

OPEN ALL DAYS Outline Itinerary

After you have arrived, we will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. Later, you will be given a brief about your program and in the evening you are invited for a welcome dinner from Orbit Alpine. Stay overnight at the hotel.

  • Meals: Breakfast, well come dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
  • Time: 30 m
  • Distance: 6 km from airport

Kathmandu is an influential mix of modern and ancient cultures of Hinduism and Buddhism. Kathmandu (or Kantipur), Patan (or Lalitpur), and Bhaktapur are three of the major cities that make up the core habitation of Kathmandu Valley. The rich historical and cultural legacy is reflected by several religious sites, time-worn temples, and countless monasteries. In this veritable city, you will go on a guided sightseeing tour taking pictures, seeing the sights and trying to understand the place. You will visit Pashupatinath, Bauddhanath, Swayambhunath, and other sites that will give you an insight into the people and the places.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1360m

Today we will drive to the airport and go on a scenic flight to Lukla. We will enjoy the flight for around 45 minutes with views of high peaks of Everest Region and land at Lukla. After breakfast at Lukla, we will begin our trek along beautiful landscapes to Phakding. Stay overnight at a lodge in Phakding.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Phakding
  • Altitude: 2,610m/8,563ft
  • Time: 4 Hours

Starting from Phakding the trek is easy through rivers and hills. We will have magnificent views of Thermasarkhu along the way before arriving at the first village. A little ahead from here, we will officially enter Sagarmatha National Park and continue the pleasant trek through beautiful landscapes. After an hour or so, the trail goes uphill all the way to Namche Bazaar. The views of Kwangde Peak and other mountains will inspire you throughout the route. And as you come near Namche, you will see the Everest-Nuptse Wall - a glorifying view that will remember forever. Take a break here and enjoy indelible views of the mountains before heading uphill to arrive at Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital. The town is tucked at the side of a U-shaped hill that seems like a section of an amphitheatre surrounded by white mountains.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Namche Bazaar
  • Altitude: 3440m
  • Time: 5-6 hours

As the climate here is so unpredictable and cold so, you should be physically and mentally prepare to face it. After breakfast you will hike towards Everest view Hotel/Khumjung. We have to go above Namche Bazaar and pass through Syangboche. From the top of hill above Syangboche you will get view of world highest peak, Mount Everest(8,848m) and other peaks like Tangboche peak (6,367m), Lhotse (8,414m), Ama Dablam (6,856m) & many more others. After reaching to Khumjung you can visit school established by Hillary. We will start next trek after having lunch passing the foot path of Khimde. After having good time here you will get back to Namche. Overnight at guest house inclusive of full board meals.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Namche Bazaar
  • Altitude: 3900m, Everest View Hotel

Starting from Namche Bazaar, the walk is fairly easy during the first half. Continue along with more majestic views of the great peaks - Ama Dablam, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Thamsherku, and other peaks. You might see a Danphe (*Lophophorus impejanus*), the national bird of Nepal along with the elusive musk deer, and even herds of Himalayan Thar (mountain goat). The trial then descends to Imja-Tse and again ascends gradually with great views of Thermasarkhu and Kantenga peaks. Trek further to reach Tengboche, a beautiful Himalayan village with an eye-catching monastery beneath the towering peak of Ama Dablam and Everest. Stay tonight at Tengboche.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea- house
  • Place: Tengboche
  • Altitude: 3867m
  • Time: 5 hours

On this day we passes through dense rhododendron forests to arrive at a suspension bridge. Nearby is the village of Pangboche. Cross the river and enjoy the scenery, and head up on the ascending trail to reach Pangboche Monastery. Observing the premises and the monastery is a quick break here at Pangboche, before you head further. You will cross a village and a hamlet, and then come to open meadows from where you will trek further to arrive at Dingboche. Stay overnight in a lodge in Dingboche.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea- house
  • Place: Dingboche
  • Altitude: 4410m
  • Time: 5-6 hours

At first, we begin along the ridge to reach Khumbu River Valley, a scenic bowl-shaped landscape with river snaking through and through. From here, we will reach Thokla with pleasurable views of the grand peaks of Ama Dablam, Lobuche, Nuptse, and Pumori. Take a short break and begin the climb along the moraines of Khumbu Glacier. Later, we will cross Thok-La Pass and arrive at the village of Lobuche where we’ll stay for the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea- house
  • Place: Lobuche
  • Altitude: 4910m
  • Time: 5-6 hours

The trek today is along the left bank of Khumbu Glacier. First it’s straight but later take care as it gets rocky across the moraine. Ahead, you will immediately recognize Pumori with its dome-like structure and Nuptse with its spire. Take a look on the left, and you’ll see Everest. Trek further to arrive at Gorakshep - a village with direct views of several Himalayan peaks. Take a break here and head towards Everest Base Camp. First cross a glacial lake and do a steep climb to reach this prized spot. If you’re here in the high season, you might easily mistake it for a hidden bazaar of Shangri-La. Amid these colorful tents, clear starry skies, and majestic peaks you might want to try some time-lapse photography but do try and sleep anyway.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Gorakshep, Everest Base Camp
  • Altitude: 5140m(Gorakshep), 5364m(Everest Base Camp)
  • Time: 3 hours

Early in the morning we will leave for Kalapatthar, probably the greatest vantage point in all of Khumbu. The trail is tricky and steep but the effort is rewarding. Once at the top you will have ravishing views of several eight-thousanders in the Everest Massif. First it’s the the greatest of them all - Mount Everest itself - on the lofty panorama followed by Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, and countless other peaks - lined right before your eyes as you gaze restlessly from left to right and again from right to left! After an exciting time at the viewpoint, we will gradually descend to Gorakshep and then trek to Lobuche. Crossing further through the Changri Glacier, we will head on a descending trail to Dinbgoche where we will stay tonight.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea -house
  • Place: Dingboche
  • Altitude: 4410m
  • Time: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we will begin the easy trek that’s under four hours. We’ll be crossing some mani walls outside Dingboche and enter an open pasture. Take a break here and follow a rocky trail to Chhukung. You’ll be reaching this village in the afternoon; so you’ll have time to look around and also take some rest. Stay tonight at a lodge in Chhukung amid the great scenery.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Chhukung
  • Altitude: 4730m
  • Time: 4 hours

Today we will be reaching Island Peak Base Camp. Begin with a steep climb to the southern edge before reaching a moraine east of the main valley below. As you climb above with impressive views of Lhotse Glacier, you will cross some streams near the opening of Imja Glacier. Here, you will come to a fork in the trail - taking you to a dried-up lake on the lower side. Take the upper trail instead, to reach the base of Island Peak. Set up camp for the night here.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Place: Isaland Peak Base Camp
  • Altitude: 4970m
  • Time: 3 hours

Start early with a walk near a moraine with a mountain on the other side. Going around the base of Imja-Tse, you will then gradually ascend to a grassy slope but lined by little rocks and pebbles. Hike further up with occasional rests here and there before coming to a ridge on either side. Nearby is the Island Peak High Camp. Setup your camp (or a bivouac) at a suitable place and stop for the rest of the day. You can also engage in some training with ice picks, crampons, and other equipment. Sleep early to save up on energy for the climb tomorrow.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Place: High Camp
  • Altitude: 5400m
  • Time: 2-3 hours

Begin before dawn as later in the day the winds tend to get stronger making the ascent difficult. We will walk up the ridges and rocky paths to the summit of Island Peak. If we happen to reach here before dawn, we will wait for the most astounding sunrise ever. We will wait in the silence, with anticipation, as the first rays of light hit the peaks. The golden mix will enchant you as you capture the images and the clips for posterity. The panoramic views are as wonderful as they are inspiring. After spending some time here, we will trek down to the base and head on our way back to Chhukung. Throughout the day you will have a feeling of satisfaction and a longing for peak climbing. Later in the day you will arrive at Chhukung and check into a hotel for the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Chhukung
  • Altitude: 6189m (Island Peak), 4730m (Chhukung)
  • Time: 6 hours

Today we will be retracing our step from Chhukung. Starting after breakfast, we will arrive at Dingboche at first. We will take a break here and also some refreshments before heading to Imja Khola. We will cross the fields of Orsho, come to a suspension bridge, and trek through the landscape until we arrive at Pangboche. Check into a lodge at Pangboche and sleep here tonight.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Pangboche
  • Altitude: 3930m
  • Time: 4-5 hours

Start after breakfast from Pangboche. First we will trek along the Imja River inside a dense forest. The mix of the cool and the silence you get inside the forest, is another great experience you can have in this trail to Tengboche. Once at Tengboche, we will take a short break and then trek down along the Dudh-Koshi River. Crossing some hamlets, we will then arrive at the village of Kyangjuma from where you again enter a forested path to reach Namche Bazaar. At Namche, you can have a hot shower and relax those muscles. Stay in a hotel or a lodge tonight at Namche Bazaar.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Namche
  • Altitude: 3440m
  • Time: 5-6 hours

Today is the last day of trek in this program. The leisurely walk takes you through forests and terraced hills. Enjoy the greenery of the alpine region as you descend to Choplung. Nearby is a very old and prominent oak tree, where you might want to take a short break. Later, continue along the ascending trail to Lukla. At night in Lukla, you can visit a local bar or have a Sherpa Dinner to top off the experience.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Place: Lukla
  • Altitude: 2840m
  • Time: 6-7 hours

After a quick breakfast in Lukla, head for the airport for an early morning flight to Kathmandu. The 40-minute scenic flight will bring you to the busy capital. From the airport, we will take you to the hotel where you can refresh and rest; or if you wish, you can spend the time around Kathmandu.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1360m
  • Time: 30m
  • Distance: 6 km

As weather can be unpredictable in the higher altitudes, we have kept this extra day as contingency - in case we could not climb Island Peak as planned. And if you do climb Island Peak on regular schedule (which happens almost all the time), an additional day means you can take part in other activities such as having a mountain flight or taking a cable car ride near Kathmandu. Or simply, you can spend the time as you like.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1360m

As the program comes to an end, we will take you to the airport as per your flight schedule.

Note: This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailor-made”. The trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, for more information please e-mail us at orbitalpine@gmail.com

Cost Details

Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek, tented camp during the climbing days, three star or similar hotel in Kathmandu on twin-sharing basis.

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek and climbing period; breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Airport – hotel – airport transfers by car, Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight ticket for clients and guide
  • All the ground transportation by private vechaile 
  • Documentation: Sagarmatha National Park permit, Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, Island Peak climbing special permit
  • Down jacket, sleeping bags, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based). Climbing equipment such as Tent, ice axe, Ropes, crampons, harness, helmet, etc
  • A professional and experienced Climbing guide (English-speaking); and porter (carrying up to 25 kg);
  • All the expenses for the guide(s) and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.). High-altitude workers special insurance.
  • Bonus for the climbing guide and all the technical gears for him
  • Applicable taxes, service charges or fees
  • Nepalese Visa fee
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain or need extra day in mountain (due to any reason) than scheduled itinerary will have to bear by client.
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
  • Travel and rescue insurance (during adventure trip is compulsory)
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, extra battery, bar bills, battery charge, extra potter, bottle or boiled water, shower etc.)
  • Tips for guides, potters, and drivers

Useful Info

For price quotation and further details please contact us.