Island Peak Climbing in 16 Days
Island Peak Climbing in 16 Days is a classic Himalayan expedition that offers an excellent introduction to high-altitude mountaineering while exploring the iconic Everest region. Rising to an elevation of 6,189 meters, Island Peak also known as Imja Tse is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking peaks, valued for its achievable summit and stunning alpine scenery. This adventure is especially suitable for beginner climbers who possess good physical fitness, basic trekking experience and a strong sense of determination.
The journey begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, followed by trekking along the historic Everest trail through vibrant Sherpa settlements such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche and Chhukung. Along the route, trekkers gain insight into Sherpa culture, Buddhist traditions and daily life in the high Himalayas. Carefully planned acclimatization days are included to help participants adapt safely to increasing altitude, reducing the risk of altitude-related illness.
As the expedition approaches Island Peak Base Camp, climbers receive essential pre-climb training focused on the use of technical equipment, including crampons, ice axes, harnesses, ropes and ascenders. The summit ascent involves glacier travel, snow slopes and short but exposed ridge sections secured with fixed ropes. While the climb is not highly technical, it requires stamina, confidence and the ability to walk for several hours in high-altitude conditions.
Reaching the summit of Island Peak is a deeply rewarding achievement. From the top, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of some of the world’s highest and most famous mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and surrounding Himalayan peaks. These views, combined with the sense of accomplishment, make the climb a truly unforgettable experience.
Throughout the expedition, participants are supported by experienced and licensed guides, professional Sherpa climbing staff and well-organized logistics. Accommodation is provided in comfortable teahouses during the trekking phase and in well-equipped tented camps during the climbing period. The best seasons for Island Peak Climbing are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when weather conditions are stable and mountain views are at their best.
Overall, Island Peak Climbing in 16 Days offers a safe, well-structured and enriching adventure that blends trekking, culture and mountaineering, making it an ideal choice for those seeking their first Himalayan climbing experience in Nepal.
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, a professional representative from Conqueri Trek and Expedition Pvt. Ltd. Will be waiting for you at the arrival terminal. After a warm welcome, you will be assisted with your luggage and escorted to your designated hotel in a private vehicle.
Upon reaching the hotel, our representative will assist you with the check-in process if required. You may then rest and recover from your journey or enjoy the hotel facilities and surroundings. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Flight from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,650m / 8,690ft)
Your flight to Lukla will operate either from Kathmandu or Manthali Airport, depending on the trekking season.
During peak trekking seasons (March, April, May, September, October and November), flights to Lukla are often rerouted through Manthali Airport due to air traffic congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport. In such cases, you will be transferred from your hotel around 12:30 a.m. for a scenic 5-hour drive to Manthali Airport, followed by a short 20-minute flight to Lukla.
During off-season months (December, January, February, June, July and August), you will fly directly from Kathmandu to Lukla on a scenic 40-minute flight.
Upon arrival at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla, the trek officially begins. Today’s trek is short and gentle, allowing time for acclimatization as you walk through Sherpa villages and along the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding. In the afternoon, you may explore nearby monasteries and prepare for the following day’s trek. Overnight in Phakding.
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft)
After breakfast, the trek continues along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. The trail passes through pine forests and small settlements before entering Sagarmatha National Park.
A steep ascent follows, offering your first breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. After approximately six hours of trekking, you will reach Namche Bazaar, the vibrant commercial hub of the Khumbu region, often referred to as the “Gateway to Everest.” Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft)
This day is reserved for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the altitude. You will explore Namche Bazaar and visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery.
A hike to Syangboche Airport and Everest View Hotel is also planned, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse and surrounding peaks. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,855m / 12,850ft)
After breakfast, the trail leads along a scenic ridge with stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. The path descends to cross the Dudh Koshi River at Phunki Thenga before ascending steeply through dense pine forests to Tengboche.
Tengboche is home to the largest and most significant monastery in the Khumbu region-Tengboche Monastery, originally built in 1923. You may attend the afternoon prayer ceremony. Overnight in Tengboche.
Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360m / 14,290ft)
The trek continues through Pangboche village, passing mani walls, chortens and alpine landscapes. You enter the Imja Valley, following the Lobuche River, with spectacular views of Island Peak and Lhotse.
After a gradual ascent, you arrive at Dingboche, a picturesque village surrounded by stone-walled fields. Overnight in Dingboche.
Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4,735m / 15,535ft)
After breakfast, you trek eastward through the Imja Valley along rocky terrain. The route offers outstanding views of Ama Dablam and Lhotse.
After approximately three hours of trekking, you reach Chhukung. Upon arrival, you will meet your climbing guide, who will brief you on the upcoming climb and final preparations. Overnight in Chhukung.
Acclimatization and Pre-Climb Training at Chhukung (4,735m / 15,535ft)
This day is dedicated to acclimatization and basic mountaineering training. Your Sherpa guide will provide instruction on climbing techniques and proper use of equipment such as ice axes, crampons, harnesses, ropes and ascenders.
Although Island Peak does not require extensive technical experience, prior climbing exposure is beneficial. Overnight in Chhukung.
Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m / 17,050ft)
From Chhukung, the trail ascends northward along the moraine of the Lhotse Glacier. After a steady climb, you reach Island Peak Base Camp.
Upon arrival, tents will be set up, followed by a short refresher training session focusing on rope techniques and glacier travel. Overnight at Island Peak Base Camp.
Summit Island Peak (6,183m) and Descend to Chhukung
The summit push begins early in the morning to avoid strong afternoon winds. Under the guidance of experienced Sherpa climbers, you ascend through rocky terrain and glacier sections using fixed ropes.
Upon reaching the summit of Island Peak (6,183m), you are rewarded with breathtaking views of Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, Ama Dablam and surrounding Himalayan giants. After spending time at the summit, you descend safely back to Base Camp and continue down to Chhukung for overnight rest.
Contingency Day for Summit Attempt
This day is reserved as a contingency in case the summit attempt on Day 10 is delayed due to unfavorable weather or other conditions. If the summit has already been achieved, the day is used for rest and recovery. Overnight in Chhukung.
Trek from Chhukung to Tengboche (3,870m / 12,304ft)
You retrace your route back through Dingboche and descend into Sagarmatha National Park. The trail offers peaceful scenery and gradual altitude loss, leading you back to Tengboche. Overnight in Tengboche.
Trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft)
The trail descends through forests rich in wildlife, including pheasants, musk deer and Himalayan tahr. Along the way, enjoy final views of Everest and Lhotse before arriving back in Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft)
Your final trekking day follows the Dudh Koshi River back to Lukla. The trail includes gentle ascents and descents through familiar villages.
In the evening, a farewell celebration will be organized with your Nepali guides and porters to mark the successful completion of the expedition. Overnight in Lukla.
Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu/Manthali
You will fly from Lukla to either Kathmandu or Manthali, depending on the season. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Optional helicopter transfer from Lukla to Kathmandu is available at an additional cost (approximately USD 550 per person, based on group sharing). Overnight in Kathmandu.
Final Departure from Kathmandu
Approximately three hours before your scheduled international flight, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey home.
Includes/Excludes
- Airport pick-up and drop (international and domestic)
- 2 night's accommodation in Kathmandu at a 3–4 star hotel
- All required permits: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, and Island Peak Climbing Permit
- Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) garbage deposit
- Experienced trekking guides and porters (1 porter for 2 clients, maximum 30 kg) and 1 climbing Sherpa for every 2 clients
- All meals and accommodation during the expedition, including tea houses during trekking and tents at base camp/high camp
- Insurance for all Nepalese trekking and expedition staff
- Emergency helicopter rescue arrangement (covered by the client’s insurance, in case of emergency only)
- International airfare (to and from Kathmandu)
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also applicable in case of early return from the trek/expedition)
- Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek/expedition
- Personal travel and high-altitude insurance, including accident, medical, and emergency evacuation (mandatory)
- Medical and emergency rescue evacuation costs, including rescue, repatriation, medication, medical tests, and hospitalization
- Personal expenses such as telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery charging, hot showers, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and alcoholic beverages
- Personal equipment including clothing, packing bags, personal medical kit, and personal trekking/climbing gear
- Toiletries such as soap, shampoo, toilet and tissue paper, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items
- Special filming, camera, and drone permit fees
- Internet services during the trek
- Tips for base camp and other staff
- Summit bonus for the climbing Sherpa
Photo Gallery
