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TripAdvisor Β· Travelers’ Choice 2026

Island Peak Climbing β€” 19 Days

5.0(23)

Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) combines the classic Everest Base Camp trek with a real Himalayan summit β€” 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 β€” just good fitness and the right mindset.

Duration
19 Days
18 nights
Max Altitude
6,189 m / 20,305 ft
Highest point
Difficulty
Strenuous
3 out of 5
Group Size
2–14
people
Best Season
Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov and dec.
Activity / Day
5-6 Hours Climbing/Trekking

Trip Highlights

  • Summit Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) β€” one of Nepal's most popular and rewarding trekking peaks
  • Walk to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) β€” the starting point of all Everest expeditions
  • 360-degree summit views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam and Everest
  • All technical climbing gear included β€” 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 β€” 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

Overview

Island Peak β€” locally known as Imja Tse β€” stands at 6,189 metres (20,305 ft) in the Everest region of Nepal. It is one of the most popular trekking peaks in the country, and it is easy to see why. Island Peak is the perfect first Himalayan climb: technically interesting, genuinely rewarding, and surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on Earth.

This trip combines two of Nepal's greatest adventures into one journey. You spend the first half on the Everest Base Camp trek β€” walking through rhododendron forests, crossing high suspension bridges, and passing through the legendary Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar. In the second half, you leave the trekking trail behind and make your way up to Island Peak Base Camp at 5,100 m, then summit the peak on a long but unforgettable summit day.

From the top of Island Peak, you are surrounded by the greatest mountains on Earth. Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Makalu (8,485 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m) and Everest itself form a wall around you. It is one of the finest panoramas in the Himalayas.

All technical climbing gear β€” crampons, harness, ice axe, ascender, helmet β€” is included in the price. Our expert Sherpa guides fix ropes on the technical headwall section and lead you safely to the summit.

Why Island Peak?

Island Peak got its name from the British expedition of 1951 β€” when they first saw it from the Imja Valley, it appeared to rise like an island from a sea of glaciers. Today it is a Grade PD (Peu Difficile) peak on the French alpine grading system β€” challenging but well within reach for fit trekkers with no prior climbing experience.

The combination of EBC + Island Peak is widely regarded as the best adventure trip in Nepal. You get the full Khumbu experience β€” monasteries, yak trains, the famous Hillary Step trail β€” and you earn the summit of a real Himalayan mountain. It is an experience very few people ever have.

Who Is This For?

This trip is designed for fit trekkers who want to step beyond trekking and into mountaineering. You do not need prior climbing experience, but you do need good cardiovascular fitness (able to walk 5–7 hours per day with a daypack), no fear of heights or exposure, and the mental resilience for a very long summit day. Our guides will teach you how to use crampons, ice axe and ascenders at base camp before summit day. The technical headwall section is protected by fixed ropes throughout.

About the Climb

The summit day starts between 1:00 AM and 3:00 AM. The total round trip from base camp to summit and back takes 10–14 hours, depending on conditions. The route begins on a rocky ridge, crosses a glacier, and finishes on a steep ice headwall with fixed ropes. Your guides will be with you at every step. Once you top out on the summit ridge, the view is total β€” an unbroken 360-degree panorama of the world's highest mountains.

Permits and Fees

All permit costs are included in your trip price. The main permits required are 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). HSJ arranges all permits on your behalf β€” no paperwork needed from your side.

Gear and Equipment

All technical climbing equipment is included β€” you do not need to buy or hire gear separately. This includes crampons, climbing harness, ice axe, ascender (jumar), helmet, and fixed rope systems on the technical sections. You will need to bring your own trekking clothes, a sleeping bag rated to βˆ’20Β°C, and boots compatible with crampons. A detailed kit list is sent after booking.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

19 days
1
Day 1

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.

Meals Dinner
2
Day 2

5-6 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast
3
Day 3

3-4 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast
4
Day 4

6-7 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast
5
Day 5

3 hrsAcclimatisation

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.

 

 

Meals Breakfast
6
Day 6

6-7 hrs

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. 

Meals Breakfast
7
Day 7

6-7 hrs

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. 

Meals Breakfast
8
Day 8

6-7 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast
9
Day 9

7-8 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast
10
Day 10

6-7 hrs

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. 

Meals Breakfast
11
Day 11

6-7 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast
12
Day 12

6-7 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast
13
Day 13

4-5 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
14
Day 14

5-6 hrs

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.

Meals Breakfast
15
Day 15

6-7 hrs

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. 

Meals Breakfast
16
Day 16

5-6 hrs

 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.

Meals Breakfast
17
Day 17

5-6 hrs

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. 

Meals Breakfast
18
Day 18

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. 

Meals Breakfast
19
Day 19

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.

Meals Breakfast

What’s Included

Included
All surface transfers as per itinerary.
Accommodation in Kathmandu at Himalayan Suite Hotel and guesthouses with breakfast while trekking
Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
Accommodation in Tented Camp while climbing with freshly cooked meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Welcome and Farewell dinner
Climbing Clinic Course at base camp
All required Climbing gears, tents, plastic climbing boot, crampons, climbing rope, ice- axe, zoomer, harness, figure of eight, carabineer etc
Experience Sherpa climbing guide with support staff
Proper Insurance of all staff including porters.
Fooding, lodging and other expenses of climbing crew
Airfare Kathmandu/Ramechhap-Lukla-Kathmandu/Ramechhap
Garbage deposit Fee
Thirty minute massage at Himalayan Suite Spa
National park Fee and Lukla Entrance Fee
Not Included
Lunch and dinner during the trip except climbing days (Meal cost is about $4-7 per item)
Personal equipment’s and clothing
Your insurances (Highly recommended)
Personal expenses
City sightseeing monuments entrance fee (NPR 250+ 400+ 1000)
Climbing permit fee

Departures

19 days Β· 0 dates
No scheduled departures right now. Contact us to arrange a private departure β†’

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Island Peak Climbing β€” 19 Days β€” Select a Departure Date
$2,000
/ person
$2,50020% OFF
Reserve with $400 β€” pay the rest later
Free cancellation Β· No hidden fees
4.9β˜… Β· 2,004+ TripAdvisor reviews
18 Years+ Experience
Why Trek with HSJ
Small GroupsMax 12 trekkers for a personal experience
Local Sherpa GuidesBorn & raised in the Himalaya
All Permits IncludedNo hidden fees or surprises
7% of profit donated

Through the Himalayan Community Project, we fund education, healthcare & conservation in rural Nepal.

Amrit SapkotaAswin SapkotaRam SapkotaAju SitaulaSushma Rijal
Ram & TeamBased in Kathmandu πŸ‡³πŸ‡΅
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$2,000per personFree cancellation
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Traveler Reviews

Overall rating
5.0/5
Based on 23 reviews
Jev S
Verified booking
5.0

Great people, great price, great service. Recommend Social journey to everyone who is willing to get value for money

Tristan M
Verified booking
5.0

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.

Mikel D
Verified booking
5.0

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 more
Taher
Verified booking
5.0

Really excellent day! Rajan was my tour guide and he was excellent. Explained every historical site and the background behind it and was very informative the whole day. He made sure I was ok always, gave good reccomendations for delicious food and we got to sp…

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