Island Peak Climbing with EBC (Everest Base Camp) Trek is a perfect blend of trekking and climbing experience in the classic Everest region. This excursion provides a great climbing experience for both novice and experienced climbers. One of the easiest trekking peaks of Nepal, the Island Peak is locally known as Imja Tse and is surrounded by icefalls, glaciers, and peaks above 7,000 and 8,000 meters. The summit is located at an elevation of 6,189 meters rising like an island thus getting the name Island peak.
Starting of Trek:
Island Peak Climbing with EBC ( Everest Base Camp Trek ) starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to the bustling settlement of Lukla. Lukla is a small settlement located in the Khumbu region. At an elevation of 2,860 meters, it is one of the gateways to the Everest region. Once you land at Lukla airstrip your trek officially starts. From Lukla traversing across lush woodlands covered by pines, rhododendrons, oaks, and mixtures of confers. Cross numbers of suspension bridges and head towards the settlement of Phakding and onto Namche Bazar. Namche is the economic hub of the region and has several cafes, pubs, and restaurants providing basic to grandeur amenities.
Have Acclimatization and head towards Tengboche
At, Namche you’ll have your first acclimatization day, and the region has various vantage points perfect for acclimatization hikes. From Namche head towards the settlement of Tengboche and visit the Khumbu region’s oldest monastery. Next, the trail leads you towards Dingboche, at Dingboche, you will have another day for acclimatization. As you progress on the trail, you’ll reach Lobuche, crossing a high Himalayan pass of Thughla Pass and the Khumbu Glacier’s steep terminal ridge.
From Lobuche, head towards Gorak Shep leaving your heavy backpack, and towards Everest Base Camp. This section of trail is covered with rugged terrains and glacier moraine with views of peaks of the Mahalangur range. The basecamp is nestled beneath the spectacular Khumbu Icefall. Walk beneath the world’s highest mountain and head back to Gorak Shep.
Next from Gorak Shep, head towards Kala Patthar. A renowned vantage point of the region, and witness a different perspective of the mountains, glaciers, and icefalls. From Kala Patthar head towards Lobuche. From here head on the trail towards Chukkung crossing a high mountain pass of Kongma La pass. Chukkung is a yak herder’s camp and an important stop for climbers en-route to Island Peak.
Island Peak Base Camp
From Chukkung head towards Island Peak Base Camp following the southern flank of the Lhotse glacier. Once you reach the base camp, and after a brief rest start your pre-climbing training. The following day head towards the summit of the Island Peak. Follow your climbing guide crossing cliffs, crampon points, crevasses, and sections with fixed ropes. From the summit witness majestic views of the Mahalangur range. Stunning views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Baruntse, Mera Peak, Chamlang, Cho Polu, Peak 38, and other Himalayan giants, glaciers, and icefalls.
After summiting the Island Peak, head back down towards Chukkung and retrace your steps back to Namche and Lukla. From Lukla catch a flight back towards Kathmandu.
Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek is an ideal trekker’s dream destination, for all thrill-seekers and adventure lovers. Be a part of this thrilling experience with your travel partner Female Guide Kathmandu.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4592ft)
The flight into Nepal is breathtaking, with views of the Himalayas and lush green hills. A representative from Female Guide Kathmandu will meet you and drive you to your hotel and assist you in check-in. After a brief rest head out and take a stroll around Thamel, a lively tourist hub. Later in the evening join in for a special welcome dinner and cultural show at an authentic Nepalese restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2 :
Kathmandu sightseeing and Trip Preparation (1,400m/4,593ft)
Head out on a sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu valley, and visit various ancient temples, monasteries other landmarks listed on the UNESCO world heritage site. Stroll around narrow alleyways and streets of the valley and witness the true culture and lifestyle of the region. In the evening join in for a short briefing with your guide about the trek and climbing. Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 3 :
Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,318ft) and trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft)
Catch an early flight towards Lukla. The flight is filled with majestic views of the Himalayas and lush woodlands of central Nepal. The Tenzing Hillary Airport is perched on a plateau surrounded by high mountains. The airport is regarded as one of the highest and most extreme airports around the world. Once you land, meet with your guide, porters, and the rest of the crew. After assembling your backpack head out into the trail. The trek official starts from Lukla and today you will be reaching the settlement of Phakding. The trail takes you across dense woodlands crossing various suspension bridges to the riverside settlement of Phakding. Once you reach Phakding head towards your tea house and after checking in, you can explore the area, head down towards the Dudh Koshi river, and get an iconic view of the scenic valley, later return to your tea house, and have friendly chats with the locals. Overnight in Phakding.
Day 4 :
Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (10.7 km) trek Today’s trail is filled with wonders of nature. Walking alongside the banks of the Dudh Koshi River with views of the mighty Everest and endless other mountain peaks. The sections of the trail are dotted with colorful prayer flags and mani stones. The colorful flags each representative’s various part of creation and is believed to carry prayers to heaven and protect the travelers from negative forces. Cross through dense woodlands of juniper, pine, and rhododendron and traverse across several high suspension bridges including the iconic Hillary Bridge over the Imja River covered with colorful flags. As you continue along the trail, you’ll make your way across the Sagarmatha National Park, at the entrance of the park, your documents will be checked after that head towards Namche, the Sherpa capital. The settlement is perched on a high hill with views of majestic snow-covered mountains. Once you reach the settlement head out and explore the area and witness the majestic views at dusk. Overnight in Namche.
Day 5 :
At Namche Bazaar: 1st Acclimatization Day (3,440m/11,286ft)
Today is your first day of acclimatization at Namche Bazaar, and the region has various vantage points for acclimatization hikes. After breakfast head towards Hotel Everest View, one of the highest altitude hotels offering a panoramic view of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Mount Everest. After exploring the area head towards the historic village of Khumjung. Visit the Hillary School, the first school in the region established by Sir Edmund Hillary, or head towards Khumjung Monastery, where the scalp of a Yeti, the abominable snowman is said to be preserved. Later head back towards Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche.
Day 6 :
Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,664ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (10 km) trek After breakfast head into the trail, towards Tengboche, a small settlement nestled in the variant Dudh Koshi valley. Today trail is covered with woodlands of juniper and rhododendron with views of the Himalayan giants of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kwangde, The settlement of Tengboche offers a close-up view of Ama Dablam, one of the world's most picturesque peaks and the Khumbu region's oldest Buddhist monastery. Explore the monastery and witness the monks chanting sacred texts and prayers. Overnight in Tengboche.
Day 7 :
Trek to Dingboche(4,410m/14,469ft)
Today start early after breakfast and head towards Dingboche, descending through a forested trail, and crossing several suspension bridges. On the trail, you will pass various Sherpa villages, including Pangboche, the biggest settlement of Sherpas in the Khumbu region. The trail takes you today past the tree line and towards high arid terrain and rocky landscape. Once you reach Dingboche head towards your tea house and rest. Later head out to witness views at dusk. Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 8 :
At Dingboche : 2nd Acclimatization Day (4,410m/14,469ft)
Walking Distance: 4-5 hours (4.5 km) trek Today is your second acclimatization day. Wake up early and head out to witness the Himalayan sunrise and after a light breakfast head towards the trail leading to the Nagarjun Hill at an elevation of 5,100 meters, also called Nangkartshang Peak. This hike is an ideal acclimatization destination with straightforward trails and no technical maneuvers. The summit of Nagarjun Hill is one of the best viewpoints in the Khumbu region, providing a 360-degree view of Lhotse, Cholatse, Kantega, Ama Dablam, and Makalu. Get close-up views of Island Peak, Imja Tse, Imja Glacier, and Cholatse. Ama Dablam peak’s base to summit is seen from the summit a different view of the mountain. After spending a brief time at the summit head back towards the settlement of Dingboche. Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 9 :
Trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours (8 km) trek Today you will be traversing through the incredible landscape of the Khumbu Valley, following the trail ascending to the Khumbu Glacier's steep terminal ridge and rocky terrain you will reach Thughla Pass, the summit of the pass is covered with prayer flags and stones that serve as memorial shrines for climbers who perished on Mt. Everest. From here follow the moraine towards Lobuche. Once you reach Lobuche head towards your tea house. Later on, take a stroll around the settlement with views of Lhotse and Nuptse looming in the backdrop. Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 10 :
Trek to Gorak Shep (5,140m/16,864ft) and hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours (12 km) trek The hike to Everest Base Camp is not extremely challenging, however, you will be traversing on rugged terrains and glacier trails. Apart from all the meandering take it slow as altitude may be a problem for some. Once you reach Gorak Shep leave your heavy backpack and head towards The Everest Base Camp traveling across glacier moraine and high Himalayan rocky terrains. The camp is nestled beneath the spectacular Khumbu Icefall. Where you will witness nothing else down here, but only camps. The colorful tents are set out by expedition groups. Once you reach the base camp enjoy the majestic views of endless snow peaks surrounding you after spending a brief time at the base camp retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep. Overnight in Gorak Shep.
Day 11 :
Hike to Kala Patthar (5,550m/18,2019ft) and trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (7 km) trek Today start early and towards the Kala Patthar. One of the most renowned vantage points of the Everest Region. Most trekkers visit this vantage point to get a view of Mount Everest and the endless peaks of the Mahalangur range. From the summit enjoy a panoramic view of 7,000 and 8,000-meter peaks. After spending a brief time at the summit head back down towards Lobuche. Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 12 :
Trek to Chukkung (4,730m/15,518ft) via Kongma La (5,535m/18,159ft)
Walking Distance: 8-9 hours (11 km) trek Today’s trail takes you across the Khumbu Glacier and from where you will ascend towards the Kongma La pass. As there is no teahouse in this region, you’ll be having a packed lunch. The summit of the pass is covered with colorful flags carrying prayers to heaven as the wind ravages it. From the pass witness a grand view of Nuptse and Lhotse glacier walls, and after a brief rest head down traversing across rocky terrain covered with moraine and lose rubbles towards the Imja Khola Valley. Following the trail descent to Chukkung. A yak herder’s camp, the settlement is now an important stop for climbers en route to Island Peak. Apart from teahouses, there are gear and equipment rental outlets from where you can hire good-quality gears. After a brief rest at Chukkung, you will have a brief orientation and final check of your climbing gears. Overnight in Chukkung.
Day 13 :
Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,100m/16,732ft) and pre-Climb Training
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours (5 km) trek Today’s trail will take you to Island Peak Base Camp. The trail steeply ascends below the southern flank of the Lhotse glacier, traversing past several streams and a glacial valley. Following the trail cross the stunning Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines before arriving at the Island Base Camp. Once you arrive at the base camp head towards your tent set out by your climbing team. After lunch set out for Pre-climb training. Organize your gears, and the climbing guide will provide you with techniques and training sessions. The guides will demonstrate the proper use of a harness, ascender, carabiner, rappel device, ice axe, etc. As part of the training session, you will have to climb up and descend using ropes. This pre-climb training is critical, especially for first-time climbers, as it will increase their confidence. After training head towards your tent and rest as tomorrow you will have to wake early. Overnight at tented camp.
Day 14 :
Summit Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft) and return to Chukkung
Walking Distance: 12-13 hours (10 km) trek/ climbing Wake up around midnight and make an early start by 1 AM or earlier. It is very vital to start early at high elevation the weather deteriorates as the day progresses. Follow the trail from the Island Peak Base Camp and arrive at a steep slope just above High Camp. From High Camp, head towards Crampon Point which takes around 3 hours to reach. As you reach the elevation of 5,700 meters put on your crampons and follow a narrow ridge leading to the base of the Imja glacier. From the glacier, enjoy stunning views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Baruntse, Mera Peak, Chamlang, Cho Polu, Peak 38, and other Himalayan giants. From here you will cross the glacier following the fixed rope line. The trail from here has few technical parts and has high elevations. This section of the trail has crevasses, depending on the weather and season. Ladders are used while crossing the crevasses. As you ascend further, you will be welcomed by the massive frozen wall of Lhotse’s south face as you reach the summit ridge. From here your climbing team will fix ropes at some sections, following the ridge you will reach the summit of the peak. The summit is surrounded by rugged boulders and glaciers, like an island. After you reach the summit witness the majestic views of the Himalayas, and panoramic view of the world's endless snowy peaks. Spend a brief time at the summit and head down towards the base camp. From the base camp, retrace your steps back to Chukkung. After reaching your tea house celebrate your success with your team. Overnight in Chukkung.
Day 15 :
Contingency Day for Summit
If your summit attempt on Day 14 is called off due to weather conditions or lack of proper fitness, this extra day has been set aside for summiting, this day can also be used in the case of an emergency, such as flight delays or cancellations and other unanticipated situations. If all goes according to plan, the additional day may be used to take it easy and explore more of the path. Alternatively, you might spend the additional day tour in Kathmandu.
Day 16 :
Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft)
Distance: 7-8 hours (23 km) trek Today’s trek is long and tough so start early. The trail today has breathtaking views of Himalayan vistas and is covered with lush sub-tropical forest and miles of undergrowth. Keep an eye out as you may spot various biodiversity in the region. Trek past settlements of Dingboche, Shomare, Tengboche, and Sansa. Traversing across woodland of pine and juniper forests, with views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Everest, and other peaks. Once you get to Namche, head towards your accommodation and later head out towards bars and pubs around the region. Overnight in Namche.
Day 17 :
Trek to Lukla (2,840m/9318ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours (18.5 km) trek Wake up early and witness the views of dawn over the mountains, after a late breakfast head onto the trail and retrace your steps back to Lukla. As most of the trail, today is downhill take extra caution. Once you reach Lukla, head towards your tea house and rest. In the evening celebrate your last night in the mountains with your team. Overnight in Lukla.
Day 18 :
Fly to Kathmandu(1,400m/4,593ft)
Duration: 35 minutes flight Board an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. The scenic flight offers you views parallel to the world's highest peaks. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be driven to your accommodation. The rest of the day is yours to explore head towards various attractions around the valley or go for souvenir shopping. In the evening, attend a special cultural programmer with a farewell dinner to commemorate the end of your journey.
Day 19 :
Final Departure
Today after breakfast, our staff will drop you off at the airport, and bid farewell to your newfound friends as well as Nepal. NOTE: All of the trekking hours and distances mentioned above are estimates and should only be used as a general guideline.
