Experience the thrilling heights of Island Peak, reaching an impressive altitude of 6,189 meters, an exhilarating climb that will leave you awestruck. Trek your way through to the iconic Everest Base Camp, where the grandeur of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, awaits your gaze.

Embark on an adventurous journey over the mighty Kongma La, a high-altitude mountain pass that promises a thrilling experience and breathtaking panoramic views. Along the way, immerse yourself in the rich hospitality and traditions of the Sherpa culture, adding depth and warmth to your Himalayan adventure.

As part of your expedition, enjoy the convenience of complimentary transfers to and from Tribhuvan International Airport, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and departure. Take advantage of the necessary trekking equipment provided, including sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags, trekking poles, walkie-talkies, and an oximeter to monitor your oxygen and pulse.

To cherish your memories, receive fun souvenirs capturing your Himalayan escapade: a trekking route map, a trendy t-shirt adorned with the Rolling Adventure logo, and a hat! Please note that the indicated trekking times serve as approximate guidelines, allowing you the freedom to explore and savor every moment at your own pace during the exhilarating Everest Three Passes Trek.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Fixed Departure

Overview

Embark on an exhilarating journey to summit Island Peak, standing tall at a breathtaking altitude of 6,189 meters in Nepal’s Khumbu region. Named for its striking resemblance to a desert isle amid frozen glaciers, Island Peak beckons adventurers to follow the footsteps of historical mountaineers who conquered it in 1953.

This iconic trekking peak promises an awe-inspiring experience, attracting travelers seeking a thrilling challenge. While Island Peak is the most popular, other peaks like Mera Peak and Lobuche East offer equally rewarding climbs.

Scaling Island Peak isn’t merely about conquering a summit; it’s a chance to fathom the enormity of the Himalayas, offering a transformative journey of self-discovery.

Beyond the climb, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Khumbu. Explore Namche Bazaar, a historic trading town now bustling with trekkers and climbers. Dive into Sherpa culture through museum visits, encounters with locals, and visits to iconic gompas like Tengboche Monastery. Amidst this Himalayan wilderness, Sagarmatha National Park’s alpine landscapes unfold, leading to unforgettable vistas of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest from Island Peak’s summit.

Climbing Island Peak requires adapting to serious altitude. Trekking through the Khumbu and reaching Everest Base Camp is an excellent way to acclimatize. As you near the summit, you’ll navigate crevasses, relying on crampons and ice axes. This adventure suits those with basic mountaineering skills like rappelling and using fixed lines. The climb, though challenging, is considered non-technical, with our expert guides at Rolling Adventure Holidays offering preparatory guidance.

The best time to climb Island Peak varies, with spring (February to March) and autumn (October to November) being popular choices. Spring offers clear weather but snow can pose challenges. Autumn boasts crisp views, yet each season presents its own unique experiences.

Island Peak is classified as a trekking peak, demanding basic mountaineering skills and gradual acclimatization. Trek high, sleep low—a guiding principle during the expedition. With the guidance of experienced professionals and a bit of preparation, reaching Island Peak’s summit is well within reach.

Apart from Island Peak, Nepal offers an array of trekking peaks like Mera Peak and Dhampus Peak, each promising incredible alpine adventures. Rolling Adventure Holidays offers customizable itineraries, ensuring a rewarding journey tailored to your preferences.

Trip Highlights for Island Peak Climbing

Conquer the challenging Island Peak, standing at 6189 meters
Enjoy unparalleled views from the summit
Explore Everest Base Camp at 5364 meters
Ascend Kalapatthar at 5545 meters for breathtaking panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and more
Marvel at astounding views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Changtse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, and other peaks from Kalapatthar
Visit the largest monastery in the Everest Region, Tengboche Monastery
Experience the rich Tibetan Buddhism culture and tradition
Witness magnificent landscapes with views of Khumbu Icefalls & Glaciers
Immerse in traditional Sherpa settlements
Interact with friendly Sherpa people, embracing their unique culture, customs, and hospitality
Discover diverse flora and wildlife along the trail within Sagarmatha National Park
Capture stunning views of the world's highest mountains, including Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam, from Island Peak
Enjoy a picturesque mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and back
Explore the renowned Sherpa hometown of Namche Bazaar
Gain insights into the culture and lifestyles of the local Sherpa people

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a team member from Rolling Adventure Holidays will greet and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. Depending on your arrival time, explore local markets before spending the night.

Day 2 :

Preparation Day

In Kathmandu, meet with the Rolling Adventure Holidays team for a trip briefing and basic mountaineering skill refresher. Enjoy exploring Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Evening spent at the hotel.

Day 3 :

Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (3 hrs)

Take a scenic flight to Lukla and trek for around three hours to Phakding, passing suspension bridges and mountain villages. Stay in a comfortable teahouse and have a home-cooked meal.

Day 4 :

Trek to Namche Bazaar (5 hrs)

Trek for five hours to reach Namche Bazaar, enjoying views of Dudh Koshi River and Himalayan peaks. Settle into a lodge and explore the town known for its bakeries and pubs.

Day 5 :

Rest Day in Namche Bazaar

Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Options include hiking to Hotel Everest View or visiting cultural sites like the Edmund Hillary School and Khumjung Monastery.

Day 6 :

Trek to Tengboche (5 hrs)

Ascend through pine forests to Tengboche, home to a historic monastery. Explore the monastery and town before staying in a local lodge.

Day 7 :

Trek to Pheriche (3-4 hrs)

Continue trekking towards Pheriche, passing Deboche and Pangboche villages. Experience the tree line and reach the valley of Pheriche to stay in a guesthouse.

Day 8 :

Trek to Lobuche (4-5 hrs)

Trek towards Everest Base Camp route, stopping at Dughla to pay respects at a memorial chorten. Reach Lobuche for an overnight stay.

Day 9 :

Trek to Everest Base Camp, then Gorak Shep (8-9 hrs)

Visit Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep for the night, experiencing the thrill of reaching the base of Everest.

Day 10 :

Trek to Kala Patthar, then Chhukung (9 hrs)

Hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise views before descending to Chhukung to Lobuche. Enjoy the magnificent vistas before settling into a lodge.

Day 11 :

Rest Day in Chhukung

Acclimatization day in Chhukung. Optional hikes to Chhukung Ri or visit frozen lakes in the area.

Day 12 :

Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (3-4 hrs)

Trek towards Lhotse’s glacier to reach Island Peak Base Camp. Spend the day practicing climbing techniques.

Day 13 :

Acclimatization at Base Camp

Day spent acclimatizing and practicing climbing skills near Base Camp.

Day 14 :

Climb Island Peak (8-9 hrs), Trek to Chhukung (3-4 hrs)

Begin early for the summit climb, return to Base Camp, then descend to Chhukung for the night.

Day 15 :

Trek to Namche Bazaar (7-8 hrs)

Descend back to Namche Bazaar through Dingboche and Tengboche, enjoying the scenic villages.

Day 16 :

Trek to Lukla (5-6 hrs)

Return to Lukla, savoring the last views of the Himalayas. Relax and celebrate with the trekking team.

Day 17 :

Fly to Kathmandu

Take a short flight back to Kathmandu, with free time to explore Thamel and enjoy local cuisine.

Day 18 :

Final Departure

Depart from Tribhuvan International Airport, bidding farewell to the Himalayas and Kathmandu Valley.

The Trip Cost Includes

Airport transfers for both international and domestic flights upon arrival and departure.
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek and climbing.
One experienced trekking guide with all expenses covered including salary, food, accommodations, transfers, and insurance.
Experienced climbing guide (1 guide per 2 climbers) or a private guide for solo travelers at the same cost.
Khumbu Municipality community fee.
All climbing permits and fees for garbage deposit.
Trekking permits.
Camping equipment including kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chair, and kitchen utensils.
Teahouses or trekking lodges accommodation during the trek.
Rental-free trekking equipment such as sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffle bag.
Climbing equipment including Rope, Ice Screw, Snow Bar, etc.
Round-trip flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and back, including applicable taxes.
Supplementary snacks like energy bars, crackers, cookies, etc.
Seasonal fresh fruits available during the trek.
Rolling Adventure’s Certificate of Appreciation after the successful trek.
Farewell Dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant with traditional performances.
Complimentary hiking T-shirt and route map provided by Alpine Ramble.
Oximeter for monitoring heartbeat and oxygen levels at high altitudes.
Comprehensive first aid box including Diomox and other necessary supplies.
Emergency rescue operation assistance in case of complex health conditions (funded by your Travel Insurance).
All government, local taxes, and official expenses.

The Trip Cost Excludes

Nepal entry visa fee (Visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu) - $25 USD for 15 days Visa.
Additional accommodation and meals beyond the scheduled itinerary.
Extra expenses on drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Additional charges for surplus luggage at domestic airports.
Unforeseen costs arising from factors beyond management control like landscape changes, weather conditions, illness, government policy alterations, strikes, or physical conditions, etc.
Personal expenses such as snacks, laundry, telephone usage, Wi-Fi, hot shower, etc.
Travel Insurance.
Tips for guides and staff.
These exclusions are not included in the package and should be considered as additional expenses during the trip.

FAQs

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Where exactly is Island Peak situated?

Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, stands tall at 6189 meters and is nestled right beyond Mount Everest and Lhotse. To reach this spectacular peak, travelers embark on a trek through the Khumbu valley, following the well-known trail to Everest Base Camp until they reach Dingboche village. Classified as a trekking peak by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), Island Peak can be a climber’s initial Himalayan venture, considering their prior trekking and climbing experience. Most adventurers fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, then trek for approximately a week to reach the base camp of Island Peak.

What's the experience like on the day of the Island Peak summit?

The summit day marks the pinnacle of your climb. It’s an arduous, demanding, and remarkably rewarding day. We commence the climb in the early hours, usually around 2 or 3 AM, determined by the mountain’s conditions. The climb itself usually spans from 10 to 14 hours, contingent upon the climber.

How challenging and technical is the ascent of Island Peak?

Climbing Island Peak demands adeptness in ice and rock climbing at higher altitudes, necessitating the use of specialized equipment such as mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axes, and rope handling. The route involves traversing crevasses on ladders and ascending fixed ropes to reach the summit. The final challenge is the last 150 meters (Ice Head Wall), which can be steep. Climbers need to be in exceptional physical shape, well acclimatized, and equipped for the ascent, which typically takes around 10-14 hours.

When is the optimal time to attempt Island Peak?

The prime seasons for scaling Island Peak are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). While winter climbs are feasible, they present increased challenges.

What is the most common route for climbing?

The prevalent route leads from Dingboche to Chhukung village, then ascends to Island Peak Base Camp, Island Peak High Camp, Crampon Point, and finally, the Island Peak Summit. Initially, the trail follows the renowned Everest Base Camp trekking path. A night is spent at both Island Peak Base Camp and High Camp before the summit attempt.

How many nights will I spend in tents during the climb?

During the Island Peak Climb, one night each is spent at Base Camp and High Camp. The return to Chhukung is typically on the same night. An extra day is reserved for contingencies, in which case an additional night may be spent at High Camp.

What advice can you offer to maximize the chances of success?

Attaining essential climbing skills and experience is crucial. Adequate acclimatization is vital, so take your time on the trail. Prior trekking experience above 4000m is recommended. Physical fitness training, multi-day hiking experience, and strength conditioning are advised. Having the right gear and equipment is essential, but our seasoned Sherpa guides and top-notch logistics support ensure the best chances for summiting.

Do you provide climbing gear and equipment?

We do offer the necessary gear for Island Peak Climbing. Additionally, we recommend reliable stores for renting or purchasing quality down jackets or sleeping bags.

What is the usual group size for Island Peak Climbing?

Our focus is primarily on small groups, usually accommodating up to 8 trekkers, ensuring personalized attention for each member. For larger groups exceeding 8, special group discounts and tailored services are available upon inquiry.

Is a climbing permit mandatory for Island Peak ascent?

A climbing permit issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) is essential for tackling trekking peaks like Island Peak. The permit is included in the package cost, and we handle the arrangements for the climbing permit and associated services.