Island Peak Climbing — 19 Days
Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) combines the classic Everest Base Camp trek with a real Himalayan summit — all in 19 days. You walk through the heart of Sherpa country, stand at Everest Base Camp, then climb a genuine 6,000-metre peak. All technical climbing gear is included. No prior mountaineering experience required — just good fitness and the right mindset.
Trip Highlights
- Summit Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) — one of Nepal's most popular and rewarding trekking peaks
- Walk to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) — the starting point of all Everest expeditions
- 360-degree summit views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam and Everest
- All technical climbing gear included — crampons, harness, ice axe, ascender and helmet
- Trek through Namche Bazaar, the capital of Sherpa culture in the Khumbu valley
- Expert Sherpa guides fix ropes on the technical sections and lead you safely to the summit
- No prior mountaineering experience required — fit trekkers only
- Proper acclimatization days built into the itinerary for a safe and comfortable ascent
- Start and end in Kathmandu with comfortable hotel stay and city sightseeing
Trip Overview
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Upon reaching Kathmandu, our representative will greet you at the airport, providing a warm welcome before transferring you to your hotel. Use this day to acclimate to the new time zone and dive into the vibrant atmosphere of kathmandu. An orientation program is scheduled for 5 pm to help to get acquainated with your surroundings.
Following breakfast, our knowledgeable tour guide from Himalayan Social Journey will escort you on a captivating journey to explore Nepal's UNESCO-listed world heritage sites. Today's itinerary includes visits to the renowned Pashupatinath temple, the majestic Bouddhanath stupa, the tranquil Swoyambhunath Stupa and the historicPatan Durbar Square.
Today marks the commencement of our adventure towards our destination. We will catch an early flight to Lukla and be greeted by breathtaking mountain vistas upon arrival. Our trek kicks off towards Phakding, where we''ll traverse through enchanting pine forests and charming Sherpa communities. As we reach the delightful village of phakding, we''ll settle into a cozy tea house for the night, utilizing the remaining daylight to wander and absorb the beauty of phakding. We''ll conclude the day with a fulfilling dinner at the teahouse.
During peak season (March, April, May, October, and November), flights to Lukla operates from Ramechhap/Manthali. Manthali is around 5 to 6 hours' drive from Kathmandu. In non-peak seasons (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December), flights to lukla operates from Kathmandu.
Overall, the decison to operate Lukla flights from Kathmandu or Ramechhap depends upon the weather and traffic flow. This diversion soley depends on the airlines, with the primary goal of ensuring safety and efficiency of trekkers.
The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar involves a scenic joureny through the Everest region. We'll traverse along the Dudh Koshi river,cross suspension bridges, and pass through picturesque sherpa village like Monjo. Ascend gradually through forest until reaching Namche Bazar, the bustling gateway to Everest.
Prepare for a successful trek to Everest Base Camp. Begin by embracing acclimization, crucial for altitude adjustment. Namche Bazar offers the perfect setting for this. Today, pritorize relexation and exploration, allowing our body to adapt to higher altitudes. Enhance acclimization with a brief hike to Everset View Hotel. Spend the afternoon immersing in the charm of Namche Bazar and its Sherpa Museum. Stay hydrated throughout the day, savoring local Sherpa cuisine for dinner. Ensure a restful night's sleepp by retiring early.
From here, we ascend towards Tengboche village, offers them with the first view of Everest itself. We can only see the tip, but the feeling is somewhere between cool and surreal. To know we're looking at the highest place on Earth. We will also be greeted with Tengboche Monastery of Dawa Choling Gompa. Visitors to Tengboche are permitted to walk freely about the monastery grounds, and they can even get a peak inside during certain hours. Check into a tea house for over night-stay and have a dinner and good sleep.
After staying overnight in Tengbouche, we head to Dingboche in the morning. Our trail descends and passes through lush forests of birch, conifer, and rhododendron trees. While trekking, we can admire good views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. We continue our walk to the Imja Valley and Lobuche River before ascending to Dingboche. Later day we will be enjoy a stunning view of Ama Dablam.Check into a tea house for diiner and good sleep.
As we journey from Dingboche to Lobuche, our path towards our destination draws nearer. The rugged terrain intensifies with each step, and the air grows thinner as we navigate the high- altitude landscape. Our day begins with a hearty breakfast, followed by preparation for the trek. We ascend towards Thukla pass, where breathtaking vistas of Punori and Nuptse await us. After a rejuvenating break in Thukla, we press onward towards Lobuche. Upon reaching our destination, we settle into a cozy tea house for the night, enjoying a satisfying dinner and before retiring for some well- deserved rest.
Begin morning adventure from Lobuche after a hearty breakfast, traverse rugged terrain as we ascend towards Gorakshep, the final settlement before reaching Everest Base Camp. Take a brief break at a tea house for lunch, then set off on the exhilarating journey to Everest Base Camp, navigating the Khumbu Glacier.After soaking in the awe-inspiring experience at Everest Base Camp, trek them back to Gorakshep, where we can enjoy a delicious dinner at the tea house and retire early for a well-deserved rest.
Ascend verticrtically behold the majesctic summit Pumori(7, 145m), Khumbuste (6,623m), Lingtren (6,697 m) and beyond delineating the border between Nepal and TIbet, all visible from the elevated vanatge point of Lho Lho pass. Marvel at the captivating panaroma including the enchanting landscapes of Changaste (7,750 m) before retracing our step back to Lobuche , encapsulating an unforgettable journey amidst nature's grandeur.
The trek back to Dingboche offers breathtaking views of the Khumbu valley and its surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam and Thamserku. Descending from Lobuche, the trail gradually winds through rocky terrain and glacial moraines, providing glimpses of the rugged beauty of the Himalayas. Finally, upon reaching Dingboche, you'll be greeted by the familiar sight of its stone houses and fields, providing a sense of accomplishment ana a chance to rest and rejuvenate before continuing your trek in the khumbu region.
Trekking to Chukkung from dingboche is a scenic and relatively short hike in the Everest region of Nepal. The trail offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, including Ama Dablam and Lhotse. Make sure to acclimitaze properly and stay hydrated throughout the journey.
Embark on a scenic stroll alongside the Imja Khola, leading to the mesmerizing destination of Pareshaya Gyab. Along the way, marvel at the majestic Nuptse-Lhotse Wall and the stunning expanse of the Lhotse Glacier. The following day, gear up for peak climbing preparations, including hands-on training with essential tools like the ice axe and climbing boots,as well as mastering rope techniques for ascending and descending.
Embark, on an exhilarating adventure by starting ascent of island Peak at 3 a.m., embracing the serenity of the early morning hours. After a rewarding climb lasting 5-6 hours, savor breathtaking vistas from the summit before descending to unwind in the tranquil of Chukkung.
Descend out of the alpine desert and back into landscapes of pine forests. Walk down to the valley, where the trail is shallower, through alpine meadows. The path leads to a steep uphill climb into Tengboche.
Following crossing of the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, continue trek to kyanjuma, a pivotal junction leading to the Gokyo Valley, Khumjumg village, and Namche Bazar. Along the way, immerse in the lush rhododendron forest, teeming with diverse wildlife such as Pheasants, Himalayan Griffons, Musk Deer, and wild goats.
The descent from Manjo to the Dudh Koshi is difficult. Walk through rhododendron and pine forests with the view of snow-covered peaks before arriving at Lukla.
Take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu/ Ramechhap. Explore Kathmandu, enjoy dinner and enjoy your last night in kathmandu. Please note that flight operations are solely determined by the airline and may be influenced by the weather.
You will enjoy breakfast in the morning, followed by a convenient airpot drop-off by our representative for your international flight , perfectly aligned with your schedule. Alternatively, if you're extending your stay in Nepal, you're welcome to join another exciting trip.
What’s Included
Departure dates
Frequently Asked Questions
Island Peak, officially called Imja Tse, is a 6,189-metre peak in Nepal's Khumbu region — the same area as Everest. It was named by the British in 1951 because it looked like an island rising from a sea of glaciers. Today it is one of Nepal's most climbed peaks because it combines a genuine Himalayan summit with the famous Everest Base Camp trek. It is graded PD (Peu Difficile) on the French alpine scale — challenging but accessible to fit trekkers with good guidance.
No. Island Peak is designed for fit trekkers who have never climbed before. You do not need any prior mountaineering experience. Our Sherpa guides teach you how to use crampons, ice axe and the ascender at base camp the day before the summit attempt. The technical headwall section has fixed ropes throughout — you clip in and move up safely under your guide's supervision.
You need good cardiovascular fitness — the kind you build by running, hiking or cycling regularly for 3–6 months before the trip. You should be comfortable walking 5–7 hours per day carrying a 6–8 kg daypack. No gym-level strength is required, but stamina and mental resilience matter most on summit day. We recommend training on multi-day hikes 3 months before departure.
Summit day starts very early — usually between 1:00 AM and 3:00 AM. The full round trip from base camp to the summit and back takes 10–14 hours depending on conditions. The route goes across a glacier, up a rocky ridge and finishes on a 50–60° snow and ice headwall with fixed ropes. It is physically demanding, but the sunrise over the Himalayas and the summit views make it one of the most unforgettable days of your life.
All technical climbing equipment is included — crampons, harness, ice axe, ascender and helmet. You need to bring your own trekking layers, a sleeping bag rated to −20°C, and sturdy trekking boots that are compatible with crampons. A full detailed kit list is sent to you after booking. Do not buy new boots for this trip — break them in with long hikes first.
You need double-layer insulated mountaineering boots or high-altitude trekking boots that can accept crampons. Light trail shoes or standard hiking boots are not suitable for the technical section. If you do not own suitable boots, we can help you rent mountaineering boots in Kathmandu before the trek begins.
Three permits are required: the Island Peak climbing permit (USD 250/person, issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association), the Sagarmatha National Park entry fee (USD 30/person), and a TIMS card (USD 20/person). All permit costs are included in your trip price. HSJ arranges and collects all permits on your behalf — you do not need to visit any office or prepare any paperwork.
The two best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November). These months have the most stable weather, clear skies and manageable cold. Spring (especially May) is the most popular because snow conditions on the headwall are usually ideal. Autumn offers slightly less crowded trails and beautiful clear views. Winter (December–February) is possible but bitterly cold. Monsoon (June–September) is not recommended due to heavy rain, cloud cover and slippery trails.
Summit day attempts depend on weather conditions. If conditions are unsafe — strong winds, heavy snow or low visibility — your guide will make the call to wait or turn back. Our 19-day itinerary includes buffer days that allow for a second summit attempt if the first is cancelled by weather. Your guide's priority is always your safety.
The summit of Island Peak (Imja Tse) is at 6,189 metres (20,305 feet). For comparison, Everest Base Camp is at 5,364 m. Island Peak Base Camp sits at approximately 5,100 m.
Altitude sickness (AMS — Acute Mountain Sickness) can affect anyone above 3,000 m regardless of fitness level. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. Our itinerary includes two dedicated acclimatization days — one in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) and one in Dingboche (4,410 m) — to give your body time to adjust. Your guide monitors everyone daily for symptoms. If you show signs of AMS, the correct response is always to descend — our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and altitude medicine.
The hardest section is the headwall — a 50–60° slope of ice and compacted snow near the summit. Fixed ropes are in place for the entire headwall, meaning you clip your ascender onto the rope and move up step by step. Your guide will be ahead of or beside you throughout. Below the headwall, the route crosses a crevassed glacier and a rocky ridge scramble. Most people find summit day harder than expected, but manage it well with proper acclimatization and pacing.
In Kathmandu you stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel with breakfast included. On the trek, you sleep in local teahouses — small family-run lodges with twin rooms and hot meals. Food along the Khumbu trail is surprisingly good: dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodle soup, pancakes, pasta, porridge and eggs are all available. At Island Peak Base Camp you stay in tents provided by HSJ.
Everything essential is included: Kathmandu hotel (3-star, 3 nights), all domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu), all permit fees, all teahouse accommodation on trek, all meals on trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), Island Peak Base Camp tents, all technical climbing gear (crampons, harness, ice axe, ascender, helmet), experienced English-speaking Sherpa guide, porter (1 per 2 guests), and a farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
International flights to/from Kathmandu, Nepal visa fee (USD 50 for 30 days), travel insurance (required — must cover high-altitude climbing above 6,000 m), personal trekking gear and clothing, tips for guides and porters, and personal spending money in Kathmandu.
Yes — travel insurance is mandatory for this trip. Your policy must specifically cover high-altitude trekking and climbing above 6,000 metres and include emergency helicopter evacuation coverage. Standard travel insurance policies often exclude activities above 4,000–5,000 m, so read the fine print carefully. We recommend providers such as World Nomads or True Traveller that cover Himalayan climbing.
Our groups are small — typically 4–10 people maximum. The guide-to-client ratio is 1:2 on summit day, meaning every two climbers has one Sherpa guide. Smaller groups are safer, more enjoyable and allow better acclimatization monitoring. Private departures can be arranged for any date.
Yes. We offer private departures year-round. Contact us with your preferred dates and group size and we will arrange a completely private trip with the same itinerary, the same expert guides and the same included gear.
Most nationalities can get a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. A 30-day tourist visa costs USD 50, a 15-day visa costs USD 30. You will need a passport valid for at least 6 months, two passport photos, and the visa fee in cash. Citizens of India and some SAARC countries have different arrangements — check with your embassy before travel.
Start training 3–6 months before your trip. Focus on cardiovascular endurance — long hikes with a weighted pack are the best preparation. Aim for 2–3 long hikes per week (4–6 hours each) carrying 8–10 kg. Stair climbing, cycling and running all help. If possible, do at least one multi-day trekking trip before Island Peak to get comfortable sleeping at altitude and walking consecutive long days. Strong legs and good lungs matter far more than upper body strength for this climb.
Traveler Stories
Traveler Reviews
Great people, great price, great service. Recommend Social journey to everyone who is willing to get value for money
Couldn't fault Himalayan Social, went out of their way to be helpful, even after I was airlifted back to Kathmandu, guides, porters and those in the office were all great. Fully recommend to anyone heading to Nepal and looking to trek.
I have travelled to Nepal many times and even lived there for a spell. On my first visit in 2008, I travelled to the Everest range with Himalayan Social Journey Trekking, Ram Sapkota's company. Ram and I got along instantly and the level of professionalism and…
Read moreMore reviews of HSJ trips
Wow what an adventure. There was great heights, low lows. Action, drama and everything else to make trecking as great as it could be HJS did it all for me. My own personal tour guide Bishnu is incredible. He speaks English better then I do... and it's my prim…
Read moreCompare Similar Experiences
