Island Peak Climbing
“Island Peak Climbing: an adventurous climb on top of stunning Island peak around beautiful Imjatse valley”
Highlights:
- On top of stunning Island Peak with a trek to world highest Mt. Everest base camp
- Sweeping panorama view of dramatic landscapes and peaks of Eastern Himalaya
- An amazing journey with grand scenery on daily walks and climb of Island Peak
- Trek and climb within World Heritage Site at Sagarmatha National Park
- Exploring cultural villages and monasteries of highlanders the Sherpa people”
Trek & Climb at a Glance:
| Group Size: | 1 – 15 |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 16 Days |
| Trip Level: | Challenging, PD+ |
| Max Altitude: | 6,189m – Island Peak Climbing |
| Activity: | Sightseeing, Climbing & Trekking |
| Best Time: | Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November) |
| Accommodation: | Hotel/Camp/Lodge |
Introduction:
The Island Peak Climb is a challenging but fulfilling trek that takes you to the top of one of the highest trekking peaks of Nepal, Island Peak (6189m) with its extensive views of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse and Amadamlam among other peaks. Over the course of this journey, you will pass through numerous monasteries and Sherpa villages and have an opportunity to learn about their culture. Traversing through the Imja valley, there is also a possibility of encountering the various species of Himalayan wildlife residing in the Everest region. With the chance to experience fantastic scenery, rare species of flora and fauna and untouched Sherpa culture on its trail, Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is one of the most popular climbing peaks.
Island Peak Climbing Route Profile
We begin the Island Peak Climbing trek with a flight to the Tenzing Hillary airport in Lukla. We make our way through Phakding, Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, taking one rest day in between. Travelling through numerous Sherpa villages including Pheriche and Chhukung, we eventually reach Island Base Camp.
We will slowly scramble up the snowy slope from base camp, all the way to the summit from where we’ll have awe-inspiring views of Mt. Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8475m), Nuptse (7855m), Baruntse (7720m), Amadablam (6856m) and other peaks depending on how good the weather and visibility is. After we’re done savoring the glorious view from the top, we will carefully descend back down to base camp and head towards Dingboche. Once at Dingboche, we come to understand why Imja Tse was named Island Peak. As we look back on the peak we just scaled, it looks like an island in a sea of ice. We bring our trek to a closure as we retrace our steps back to Lukla and catch a flight back to Kathmandu.
Island Peak Climbing is a physically challenging trek that can be performed without much technical knowledge. It is a perfect introduction for anyone looking to get into mountaineering but doesn’t have much experience so far.
However, regardless of interest in mountaineering, this is an enjoyable trek that anyone can perform as long as they are physically fit.
Best Times to Visit: Spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November)
The best times to attempt the Island Peak Climb would be during spring and autumn. The monsoon washes away most of the dust and pollution making these times ideal for sightseeing. The weather is stable, the temperatures are pleasant and the skies are clear leading to an easy climbing experience with the best possible views. Winter (December – February) might not be a good time to visit as the climb can become perilous due to heavy snowfall and the cold winds and temperatures can be quite harsh.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu (1,300m/4,428ft)
Day 02: Fly to Lukla (2,800m/9,184ft) then trek to Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft): 40 min flight, 3-4 hours trek
Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft): 5-6 hours
Day 04: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,283 ft): Acclimatization Day
Day 05: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694ft) 5- 6 hours
Day 06: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft): 5 to 6 hours
Day 07: Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730m/15,518ft): 3-4 hours
Day 08: Acclimatization: Climb Chhukung Ri (5,546m) and trek back to Chhukung: 3 – 4 hours
Day 09: Chhukung to Island Peak Base camp (5,200m/17,060ft): 3-4 hours
Day 10: Pre-Climb training on Island Peak Base Camp
Day 11: Island Peak Base Camp to Island Peak Summit (6,189m/20,305ft), back to base camp: 10-12 hours
Day 12: Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche (3,985m/13,074ft) 5-6 hours
Day 13: Pangboche to Namche Bazaar: 4-5 hours
Day 14: Namche Bazaar to Lukla: 6-7 hours
Day 15: Fly to Kathmandu
Day 16: Final departure
