Island Peak

Island Peak is 6187 meters high and one of the most popular and busy trekking peak in Nepal, also known as Imja Tse, lies in the Khumbu Himalayan range. Climbing this peak gives the best satisfaction every amateur and serious climber can dream of. If you are seeking the thrill of adventure and wish to widen your experience towards the peak climbing expedition beyond simply trekking in Nepal, this is the mountain for you.

Our professionally designed itinerary offers you a couple of days extra at the same town to get acclimatized.

We head for Island Peak Climbing after the essential climbing practice course which is briefed and instructed by our Climbing Sherpa on various aspects of climbing techniques. Your historical effort to summit the peak will be rewarded with probably one of the best panoramic views in the world as you feel Lhotse, Nuptse, Baruntse, Ama Dablam and Makalu are almost touching the tip of your nose. Descending with a sense of achievement, our route takes us into many cultural sites, such as Pangboche, a traditional Sherpa village; Tangboche, famous for its ornately decorated Tibetan monasteries and Khumjung with Hillary school inside the clouds and mysterious Yeti scalp.

If you are looking for longer trip to Island Peak then our 21 days Everest Base Camp and Island Peak or 25 days Gokyo, Everest base camp and Island Peak Adventure are another options for you.

Our Island peak Group trek departure every week from Kathmandu, private trek can be arranged any time, view our selected departure Dates.

The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. Our trip can be customized at your request to accommodate your specific requirements.

NOTE: During the trip; weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors, that are beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

Flight Delay in Kathmandu and Lukla

Twin Otter is the primary mode of transport to and from the airstrip at Lukla. This service is fairly dependable. Sometimes, flights (to and from Lukla) may be cancelled due to mountain weather conditions or technical problems. In such case, Himalayan Trail Blazer will charter a helicopter to ensure you are on schedule for your international flight. The helicopter can fly if the visibility is 1500m, while the twin otter can fly if the visibility is 5000m, as per Nepal’s Civil Aviation rules.

The cost of the helicopter is payable directly to our Kathmandu office in the event that this service is utilized. US cash, traveler’s cheques, or credit cards (Visa Cards, Master Cards only) are accepted. You will be given a receipt upon payment so that you may claim the amount from your travel insurance. The minimum cost will be US$1000 and maximum US$3500 depending on the number of group members.

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,300 m) – Welcome and Briefing

Touch down at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Meet your expedition guide for a detailed trip briefing covering Island Peak climbing plans, safety, gear checks, and permits. Evening free in Thamel to pick up last-minute items.

Day 2: Kathmandu City Tour – UNESCO Sites and Trek Prep

Explore Swayambhunath, Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath with a licensed culture guide. Learn about Nepal’s Buddhist and Hindu heritage, then return to the hotel to finalize equipment and packing for the Lukla flight.

Day 3: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla; Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

Take a scenic mountain flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Start trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges and passing mani walls to reach Phakding. Gentle first day to ease into the trail.

Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Follow forested trails through Benkar and Monjo, enter Sagarmatha National Park, and cross the Tenzing–Hillary suspension bridge. A steady climb brings you to Namche Bazaar, the hub for Everest Base Camp and Island Peak expeditions.

Day 5: Namche Acclimatization – Everest Viewpoints and Sherpa Culture

Active rest day. Hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung for panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Visit the Hillary School and Khumjung monastery if time allows. Return to Namche to hydrate and rest.

Day 6: Trek from Namche to Tengboche (3,850m)

Traverse a scenic contour trail with views of Ama Dablam, descend to Phunki Thenga, then climb through rhododendron forest to Tengboche. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual highlight of the Everest region.

Day 7: Tengboche to Pheriche (4,230 m)

Drop to Debuche, cross the Imja Khola, and pass Pangboche with close-up views of Ama Dablam. Continue across alpine terrain to Pheriche, a key acclimatization stop with a Himalayan Rescue Association aid post.

Day 8: Pheriche Acclimatization – Short Hikes and AMS Briefing

Take an acclimatization hike to a nearby ridge for wide Himalayan views. Attend the HRA talk on altitude illness, then hydrate, rest, and review plans for the push toward Lobuche, EBC, and Island Peak.

Day 9: Pheriche to Lobuche (4,910 m) via Thokla Pass

Climb gradually to Dughla and ascend the memorial ridge at Thokla Pass. Continue along the lateral moraine beneath Nuptse to reach Lobuche. Evening briefing for the long day to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp.

Day 10: Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,160 m) and Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)

Follow the Khumbu Glacier to Gorakshep for a short break, then continue to Everest Base Camp. Celebrate at the EBC rock with views of the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Gorakshep for the night.

Day 11: Sunrise at Kala Patthar (5,550 m); Trek to Lobuche

Start before dawn for the classic sunrise view from Kala Patthar, with Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and Lhotse in full view. Descend to Gorakshep for breakfast, then trek back to Lobuche to position for the high pass.

Day 12: Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730 m) via Kongma La (5,535 m)

Cross the challenging Kongma La, the highest of the Three Passes, for a spectacular approach into the Imja Valley. Descend carefully to Chhukung, the final village before Island Peak Base Camp.

Day 13: Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200 m)

Head up the Imja Valley beside moraines from Lhotse and Imja glaciers to reach Base Camp. Settle into tents, review fixed-line techniques, and prepare gear for the climb.

Day 14: Base Camp to High Camp (5,600 m) – Skills and Rest

Make a short but steep move to High Camp. Fine-tune crampon, harness, and ascender use, practice rope travel, and rest early. The guide confirms the summit plan and weather window.

Day 15: Summit Day – Island Peak (6,189 m); Descend to Chhukung

Begin before dawn. Tackle rocky steps, crevasses, and the summit headwall on fixed lines to reach the top of Island Peak for sweeping views of Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Baruntse. Descend via Base Camp to Chhukung for a well-earned lodge night.

Day 16: Chhukung to Pangboche (3,930 m)

Retrace the valley past Bibre and Dingboche with constant views of Ama Dablam. Follow the Imja Khola to the sacred village of Pangboche. Visit the monastery if time permits.

Day 17: Pangboche to Monjo (2,835 m) via Tengboche and Namche

Descend to Debuche and cross the river, climb to Tengboche, then continue down to Namche Bazaar. Exit Sagarmatha National Park and reach Monjo for a peaceful night by the river.

Day 18: Monjo to Lukla (2,845 m)

A relaxed final trekking day through Phakding and Ghat back to Lukla. Celebrate your Island Peak success with the team and confirm the flight schedule to Kathmandu.

Day 19: Fly Lukla to Kathmandu (1,300 m)

Morning flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel, enjoy a hot shower, and spend the afternoon at leisure. Optional massage or souvenir shopping in Thamel.

Day 20: Contingency/Buffer Day in Kathmandu

A spare day built into the program to offset possible Lukla flight delays. If unused, enjoy extra sightseeing, café time, or a food tour in the city.

Day 21: Departure from Kathmandu

Check out and transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Trip ends with lifetime memories of Island Peak and the Everest region.

Cost Includes

– Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private car / van / bus.
– Standard twin sharing accommodation in three/four star hotel in Kathmandu breakfast included.
– Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private car / van / bus.
– All your standard Meals as per itinerary during the trek and Climb.
– Hot drinks during camping (from Island epak base camp and above).
– Tea Houses / Lodges, Guesthouses and Tented accommodation during the trek.
– A government licensed English speaking Guide during the trek and climb.
– The required number of staff and Porters to carry your luggage during the trek.
– Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine for all staff.
– Everest National Park permits.
– Lobuche Peak Permit fees.
– Garbage Deposit Fee.
– General Climbing equipment such as Rope, Ice Screw, Snow Bar etc.
– Airfare from Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu including airport departure tax in Kathmandu and Lukla airport.
– Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu.
– All our government taxes.
– Official expense.

Cost Excludes

– Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu.
– Your travel insurance (compulsory).
– International airfare and airport departure tax.
– Nepal entry visa, you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. You will also require 2 passport size photos.)
– Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks laundry.
– Personal trekking and Climbing Equipment.
– Tips for trekking staff. (Tipping is expected).
– Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.

Q. How fit do I have to be and is trip for me?

Climbing Peak provides the most adventurous experience with spectacular scenery through remote glaciated valleys and passes. This trip requires you to have an above normal level of fitness which will assist with climbing Peak. Any person suffering from a per-existing medical condition or diseases must seek medical advice before considering this trek. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort before being fully acclimatized.

To prepare for a strenuous trek you should begin training at least two to three months before your departure. As a guideline, an hour of aerobic exercise three to four times per week would be considered a minimum requirement. The best preparation is bush walking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per comfortable and able to enjoy the trek to the fullest. They are physically strong, sharp-witted and have an incredibly positive attitude towards a life that we would consider extremely tough. There is something about a trek in the Himalaya that draws you back time and time again. For keen walkers it is a paradise and even avowed non-walkers find that one foot just seems to follow the other, drawn by the appeal of what lies beyond.

As the trip is so long, can I bring food and other gear not on the list?

Of course! Most people on the Everest expedition, members end up bringing “the kitchen sink”! We encourage you to bring some of your favorite goodies and tech toys, as base camp will become our home for 2 months or so. The more comfortable you are, the more energy you have for the climb, so every little thing helps!

Is there a private trip option too? If yes, how does that work and what are the costs?

Taking as your Everest expedition is a once in a lifetime experience, we wanted to make sure you have every possible advantage. Some clients enjoy the added privacy and schedule flexibility that a private expedition allows. A private means you will have your own guides, your share of the Sherpa carry staff, a private dining tent, and optional private communication facilities. This allows you to climb at your own pace, and enjoy the mountain on your own terms. The costs vary depending on how many clients there are in your private group. Please contact the office for details.

Are the skills/prior experiences required for this climb?

Simply, You cannot just decide to write a cheque and go and climb Mt. Everest! A comprehensive climbing resume is required to join our team. The most required factor on our ‘Himalayan Trail Blazer Everest Expedition’ is that the participants must have a solid understanding of mountaineering skills. This should include previous high altitude experience of at least 6,000 meters, mixed with a multitude of Alpine mountaineering and, preferably, you will have taken part in a previous 8,000-metre expedition. Please let us know if you want us to arrange training program in some of the 6000 and 7000 meters peaks in Himalaya before your Everest expedition begin. Our Three Peaks Climbing Courses or Pumori Expedition is appropriate for preparing Everest expedition. By our experience we have found that those who have been to 7000 to 8,000-meters peak previously have a considerably better chance of getting to the top of Everest. We would strongly advise you to climb one of the other 7000 or 8,000 meter peaks before going to Everest, as this is the best way of ensuring the money you spend on Everest will be rewarded by a successful ascent and a safe return home. Exceptionally, however, climbers who have not had the chance of climbing 7000 to 8,000 meters peak may consider Everest if they have a compensating depth of experience.

What is the conditioning level needed for this climb?

You should be in the best shape of your life! This is our longest expedition of the year. It requires patience, stamina, mental fortitude, and a strong will. Summit day can sometimes be over 20 hours long! Day by day the challenges are different, but the more prepared you are, both mentally and physically, the smoother your trip will go.

In a team, how many climbers will be on this expedition?

Maximum 10 members can be included on our Himalayan Trail Blazer Everest expedition. This is to ensure that we can maintain safety and our attention on detail. There may be more in base camp and in the camps on the mountain if there are private expeditions, but they will generally travel separately from the main team.

Can I contact other climbers or guides for this expedition?

Yes, we encourage that. Perhaps there may be someone in your area that can become a training partner, perhaps they can help you source some hard to find gear. The bottom line is that it’s a good idea to have some contact with folks that you will share this experience with.

Will I be sharing a tent or room with other climbers? Is there a single room option on this trip?

You will have your own tent in base camp, but on the mountain, you will be sharing a tent with others. We generally book you in to a single room in the hotel in Kathmandu whilst it is twin share in the lodges on the trek into base camp. A single supplement is available. Please contact us for further details.

Is the food in mountain prepared to international standard in terms of safety?

YES, the food is very safe during the trekking and we recommend you to eat the vegetarian and local food.

Is water provided and is there still water available at higher altitudes? Is it filtered/boiled? Readily available?

Bottled water is easily available at the lodges and tea houses. You can buy bottled water at the cost of USD 2 at lower elevations to USD 4 to higher elevation per littler. You can also drink the normal tap or spring water if you bring the purifying aid with you.

What mode of transportation do you use?

Himalayan Trail Blazer is all about providing you with local insights, lifestyle as well as adventure. Depending on the nature of the travel, the transportation to and from the destination varies from domestic flights to vehicular transportation to even piggyback rides on mules and yaks. We provide you only those options which enhance your local experience while allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently. We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, vans or alternatively 4WD SUVs, more maneuverable in travelling along the narrow and bumpy roads of Nepal. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless we are travelling in cooler areas.

For domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu), we use Tara Air, Agni Air -popular domestic airlines.

What is the best season for this trekking?

Every trekking trip up the mighty Mt. Everest presents its own amazing, unforgettable moments that forever live on in the hearts and minds of those brave enough to make the climb. One of the most unpredictable elements of the Everest region is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns and volatility of the conditions that can occur in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation. Here are some weather basics to help ensure that you come to the Himalayas as well equipped and prepared to face anything.

Generally speaking, the nights are much cooler than the daytime hours in the Everest region. Many first-time trekkers are surprised to learn about the incredible range that may occur in a given day. During the day, the thermometer could reach temps as high as 25 degrees C, only to dip down as low as -20 degrees C in less than 24 hours. While there’s no way to know exactly what each day in the mountains will bring, the weather and temperature ranges tend to be somewhat predictable based on the month and season.

Spring – March / April / May / June
Spring happens to be one of the best times of the year to visit the Everest region, although because of this, it can become somewhat crowded. One can meet many other Everest climbers during this season and base camp is full of tents. The beautiful clear blue sky can be seen and the many different species of flower are visible in the lower altitude.

During springtime, the average temperature is 17 degrees C with a maximum of 25 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

July / August Through Mid-September is Monsoon Season
This season is not really recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes, below 3500 meters. In areas above 4000 meters, it rains sometimes and although it is also sometimes dry, very few people travel during this season. There are positives to trekking during the monsoon months, however. The excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds. The maximum temperature during the monsoon season averages 25 degrees C during sunny days with a minimum -15 degrees C in the morning and night at areas above 4000 meters. The average temperature tends to hover around a comfortable 18 degrees C.

Autumn – End of September / October / November
Similar to springtime, autumn in the Everest region is also a crowded season, but it’s one of the best times to trek. While it lacks the beauty of flowers, the clear blue sky can be seen, affording incredible views from just about every angle.

The average temperature during the fall is 15 degrees C with a maximum temp of 20 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -10 degrees C in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude.

Regardless of time of year, trekkers should always plan accordingly and bring clothing for both cooler and warmer temps. Layering is always recommended, as are pants that can double as shorts. For a full list of clothing and materials to bring to account for various temperatures and weather changes that can occur in the Everest region, visitors should work closely with their travel provider. This will ensure that the adventure will be enjoyable no matter what the weather and that every possible scenario will be accounted for ahead of time.
I m a Vegeterain, is that a Problem ?

No problem at all because the lodges mostly serve the vegetarian meals. We always recommend our clients to eat vegetarian meals to avoid the food poisoning, eating heavy meals and non- vegetarian meals at the high altitude is not really safe for the stomach.

How much should I tip my guide staff?

This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from 20USD to 15,000 USD for an Everest expedition tip. Tipping is not must, but a small way to show your guides thanks for their help. The level of the tip should reflect the level of personal involvement with your guide. Recommended tipping and Sherpa bonuses are as follow:

Allow $80-150 for general non-sherpa crew who stay at base camp.
Allow $150-250 for sherpas who go up to the base camp.
Summit climbing Sherpa US$ 400-600 per Sherpa

Do your guides have trekking guide certificates from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center? Have they received first aid training for high altitude?

Yes, they have all received a 45-day training from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center in Nepal. The guides have also received high altitude first aid training from KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project).

What safety measures are in place? What safety equipment do your guides carry with them on trek to deal with sickness/accidents?

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Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?

Holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.

What immunizations will I need?

No vaccinations are compulsory in Himalaya, but we do recommend you are covered for diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus.

We also recommend:

A dental check-up prior to travelling.
That you know your blood group in case of emergency.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader and Himalayan Trail Blazer at the time of your booking.

Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

“ Join Upcoming Island Peak starting from 19-10-2026 and 30-10-2026”

Trip Facts
Destination:	Everest Region, Nepal
Trip Grade:	Moderate to Strenuous
Max Altitude:	6187M (Island Peak)
Best Season:	Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Group Size:	2–12
Start/End:	Kathmandu
Accommodation:	Lodge, Camping (Any One)

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What Our Client Says ?

Eric Larsen – Everest Expedition Summit 2010 Autumn

In autumn 2010, I joined the Everest Expedition organized by Himalayan Trail Blazer. Expeditions to Everest during the autumn season are rare, yet the team executed everything with outstanding professionalism, safety, and care. From the meticulous planning to the on-ground support, their expertise was evident at every step. I felt fully supported throughout the journey, and the experience remains one of the most memorable adventures of my life. I would highly recommend Himalayan Trail Blazer to anyone seeking a genuine and well-organized Himalayan expedition.”

Ryan Waters – Dhaulagiri Expedition 2010

Partnering with Himalayan Trail Blazer for the Dhaulagiri Expedition was an outstanding experience. Their logistical support, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of the Himalayan region made all the difference in ensuring the team’s safety and success. From the planning stages in Kathmandu to the final summit push, everything was handled with professionalism and genuine care. I’ve led expeditions across the world, and I can confidently say that Himalayan Trail Blazer sets a new standard in high-altitude guiding and support in Nepal.